Volume VII: Table of Contents
Introduction
Part I: Church Historian's Excerpt from From Ford's
History of Illinois
Chapter I: Conditions in Hancock County Reviewed by Governor
Ford--The State Arms of the Legion Surrendered on
the Demand of the Governor
Chapter II: Submission of the Prophet to the Requirements of
the Governor--Gathering of the Enemy Forcesd of
the Prophet--Governor Ford's Defensive
Justification for his Placement of the Hostile
Forces at Carthage and the Dismissal of Others
Chapter III: Governor Ford's Visit to Nauvoo--Fears on the
Way--Insulting Speech to the
Citizens--Resented--Hears of the Assassination of
Joseph and Hyrum Smith
Part II: Extension of Quotations from Ford's Hisotry of
Illinois
Chapter IV: Governor Ford's Comments on the Character of
Joseph Smith and His Followers--He Conjectures on
the Future of Mormonism
Chapter V: Political Considerations of the Period Following
the Death of the Prophet--"Trial" of the
Murderers--Status of Civil Government in Hancock
County
Part III: Memoirs of the Late President John Taylor
Respecting Affairs at Nauvoo Leading up to the
Martyrdom of the Prophet and Patriarch: Governor
Ford's Responsibility Therein
Chapter VI: The Martydom of Joseph Smith: Review of
Conditions in Illinois Preceding that Event
Chapter VII: John Taylor and Doctor Bernhisel's Interview with
Governor Ford--Pledge of Governor Ford for the
Security of Joseph Smith if He Would Come to
Carthage
Chapter VIII: Interview Between Joseph Smith and Governor
Thomas Ford
Chapter IX: The Assault Upon the Prison--The Murder of Joseph
and Hyrum Smith
Chapter X: Was Governor Ford Responsible for the Murder of
the Prophet and Patriarch of the New Dispensation
Part IV: Historians' Second Compilation of Historical
Items of Church History, From 22nd of June, 1844
to 8th of August, 1844
Chapter XI: Miscellaneous Events Apart from the Major Facts
of the Martydom of the Prophet and Patriarch from
June 22nd, 1844 to June 29th, 1844
Chapter XII: Movements in Hancock County, Carthage, Nauvoo,
Warsaw and Quincy, for the Maintenance of Peace
Following the Martydom: List of the Names of
Those Who Were In the Mob Assembled to Slay the
Prophet
Chapter XIII: The Martydom in Poetry--Efforts for Food Supplies
and Protection for the People of Nauvoo
Chapter XIV: A Chapter of Sundry Events at Various Places and
Documents Following the Martydom: United States
Press Comments on the Murder
Chapter XV: Chapter of Miscellaneous Documents, Press
Excerpts and Movements of Leading Elders of the
Church at Nauvoo and Elsewhere
Chapter XVI: The Movements of the Apostles and Other Leading
Brethren in the East and at Nauvoo--Important
Communication from Governor Ford
Chapter XVII: Gathering of the Twelve and Other Leading Elders
at Nauvoo--Death of Elder Samuel H. Smith,
Brother of the Prophet, Early Missionary of the
Church and One of the Eight Witnesses of the Book
of Mormon
Chapter XVIII: The Gathering of the Twelve Apostles from the
East to Nauvoo: Preliminary Meetings Looking to
the Settlement of the Question of the Presidency
of the Church
Chapter XIX: The Settlement of Church Leadership--The Twelve
Apostles Accepted as the Presidency of the
Church, Brigham Young at Their Head.
Part V: Excerpts from the Manuscript History of Brigham
Young From August 9, 1844, to October 8, 1848
Chapter XX: Events Immediately Following the Sustaining of
the Quorum of the Twelve as the President of the
Church--Resumption of the Church
Activities--Perpetuation of the Policy of the
Prophet.
Chapter XXI: Formal Trial and Excommunication of President
Sidney Rigdon--Restless Movements of James
Emmett--Mission Activities of the
Church--Movements of State Officials and the Mob
of Hancock County
Chapter XXII: Epistle of the Twelve to the Church--Moral and
Spiritual Guidance
Chapter XXIII: Minutes of the Important Conference of October
6th to 8th, 1844--The Church Set In
Order--Duties of the Priesthood
Expounded--Economics Considered.
Chapter XXIV: The Preliminary Steps to the Forthcoming
Prosecution of the Murderers of Joseph and Hyrum
Smith--The Work in the Society Islands--Temple
Affairs--Financial Embarrassment
Chapter XXV: Progress of Work on the Temple--Miscellaneous
Movements in Church and State
Chapter XXVI: The Great Conference of the Seventies at
Nauvoo--Organization of New Quorums--Dedication
of the Seventies' Hall--Notable
Discourses--Doctrinal Instructions by President
Brigham Young on Priesthood--The Twelve--The
Seventy--And the Bishopbric
Chapter XXVII: Campaign Against Wickedness Both by the Church
Authorities and the Nauvoo City Counsel--Villainy
of Nauvoo's Enemies
Chapter XXVIII: The Story of Continued Progress in the Church in
Nauvoo, In Europe and In the United States--Plea
for the Return of James Emmett's Company
Chapter XXIX: The James Emmett Company Officially
Visited--April Conference of 1845--Municipal
Corporations Under General State Law--Western
Movement Proposed by Governor Ford
Chapter XXX: An Appeal to Lyman Wight to be United with the
Twelve--Letters to the President of the United
States and the Governors of the Respective
States--Letters of Governor Ford to State
Military Leaders
Chapter XXXI: Sundry Events Grouped Together Looking to an
understanding with the State Government at
Nauvoo--Harvest Feast at Nauvoo
Chapter XXXII: Preparations for Westward Journey--The Final
Word: The Church Must Leave Illinois--Details of
the Plans--American Government Fails in the Case
of the Latter-Day Saints
Chapter XXXIII: Last Conference at Nauvoo--Plea of the "Mother of
Prophets"--Pathetic
Chapter XXXIV: Official Message to the Saints in the United
States--Removal of the Church to the
West--Organization--Oliver Cowdery's Tender of
Services--The Bigelow Case--Warren-Young-Taylor
Outrage--The Power of Prayer vs.
Mobocracy--Appeal to Governor Ford
Chapter XXXV: Important Letters, Friendly and
Otherwise--Summary of Recent Procedure in and
About Nauvoo with Comment of an Editorial from
the Times and Seasons
Chapter XXXVI: Murders by Mobs Continued--Confession of Dr.
Robert D. Foster--Farewell of Orson Pratt to
Eastern Saints--Westward by Shipping--The Durfee
Murder Case
Chapter XXXVII: Dedication of Parts of the Temple--Endowments
Given--Roman Catholic Efforts to Purchase the
Temple and Other Nauvoo Property--The Church in
England--United States Federal Charges of
Counterfeiting Against Church Authorities--Church
Publications for 1845
Chapter XXXVIII: Large Number of Persons Endowed in the
Temple--January and February, 1846--Catholic
Church Efforts to Purchase L.D.S.
Property--Friendly Attitude of Judge Josiah
Lamborn--Repeated Hostile Efforts of State
Officials--Departure of the Twelve Hastened by
False Reports Circulated by Governor Ford
Chapter XXXIX: Departure of Brigham Young From
Nauvoo--Proposition of "A. G. Benson &
Co."--Proposed Contract--Public Meeting in the
Temple--Mississippi Bridged by Ice--Limited
Number Who Crossed on the Ice With Teams and
Families--Petition to the Governor of
Iowa--Reflections on Commencement of Exodus from
Nauvoo
Chapter XL: Discontinuance of Daily Quotations from the
Manuscript History of Brigham Young--Sundry
Events in the Marching Encampment from the Close
of February to Mid-June
Chapter XLI: The Return to Winter Quarters--The Organization
of and Universal Acceptance of the First
Presidency of the Church, Brigham Young, Heber C.
Kimball and Willard Richards--1847-8 President
Young's Last Journey Over the Plains
HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
PERIOD II
From the Manuscript History of Brigham Young
and Other Original Documents
Volume VII
An Introduction and Notes by B. H. Roberts
Published by the Church
INTRODUCTION
Volume VII is divided into six parts:
I. Church Historians' Excerpt from Ford's History of Illinois, pp. 1
to 31.
II. Later Church Historians' Extension of Quotations from Ford's
History of Illinois, pp. 33 to 51.
III. Personal Account of the Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith by
the Late President John Taylor, pp. 53 to 126.
IV. Second Compilation of Historical Items of Period I of Church
History, From 22nd of June, 1844, to 8th of August, 1844 (Compiled by
Church Historians George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff, from the Journals
of Elders Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff and others), pp. 127 to 243.
V. Excerpts from the Manuscript History of Brigham Young from August
9, 1844, to October 8, 1848---Apostolic Interregnum---Inauguration of, and
Sustaining of the Second First Presidency of Three, pp. 245 to 630.
The Church Documentary History, Period I, (The History of Joseph
Smith the Prophet by Himself---his daily Journal in fact), necessarily
closed with Joseph's martyrdom to which was added a brief account of his
obsequies, and of his various services to humanity. The Historians of the
Church who brought to a close that Period, George A. Smith, cousin of the
Prophet and one of the Twelve Apostles, and Wilford Woodruff, also one of
the Twelve Apostles, immediately followed that close by publishing a long
and unbroken excerpt from Governor Thomas Ford's History of Illinois,
Which was published in 1854, about six months after the governor's death.
This posthumous work gave large space to the activities and adventures of
the Prophet and his people in Illinois, from 1839 to 1846. This, in fact,
constitutes about the only part of Ford's History that is of permanent
value or importance.
George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff's excerpt from Ford's History of
Illinois extends from page 328 to page 354; which is about two-thirds of
what the governor wrote on the Mormons. Their quotation ends in the middle
of a sentence, this because they were unwilling, doubtless, to include the
vicious assault upon the character of the Prophet with which the sentence
ends. The saints may now, however, be indifferent to such assaults upon
the character and life's work of their Prophet, since time has placed the
true value upon his character and the success of his work, vindicating
both; rendering the "pelting of his memory with vile epithets"as supremely
vain. Besides Ford's treatise of the Mormons in Illinois has some valuable
material for their history not to be had elsewhere. And the student will
have the satisfaction of knowing that he has practically all that the
governor-enemy of the saints has said against them, and that the Prophet's
followers have not blanched from all that is written of him by this
opponent. The governor closes his chapter xi with the account of the trial
of the murderers of the Prophet and Patriarch with the concession that
government in Illinois had failed so far as protecting the Latter-day
Saints in their rights, and adds that "there can be no government in a
free country where the people do not voluntarily obey the laws;" which, of
course, closes his connection with the events that occurred during the
lifetime of the Prophet.
For the rest of Ford's connection with the History of the Church of
the Latter-day Saints, excerpts are given including official letters,
etc., as the events are developed; and are chosen and used in this present
edition, and constitute Part II of this volume.
Governor Ford's contributions to the history of that period are
followed by a review and commentary upon them by the late President John
Taylor, who was a contemporary with Governor Ford and a leading
participant in those events. This constitutes Part III of this volume. It
is a review and commentary of the period of highest value, a
statesman-like paper, a document of highest historical value of the times;
and one marvels at the high tone with which the document planned, being
dispassionate, and one might say, written unexpectedly in an impartial
spirit. The balancing of the pros and cons as to the responsibility of
Governor Ford for the murder of the martyred being surprisingly fair to
the governor. In my study of historical documents in which judgment is
rendered upon such questions, without exception I can say that I have
examined nothing that is equal in spirit and justice to this review by
President Taylor of Governor Ford's responsibility for the murder. The
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can well be proud of this
performance of their great Apostle and later President of the Church. It
deserves to live forever
Part IV treats the Apostolic succession to the Presidency of the
Church, from the death of the Prophet to August 8, 1844, a compilation
made by the Church Historians George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff from
the Journals of Elders Willard Richards and Wilford Woodruff and others.
It considers, and settles the claims of guardianship to the church made by
Sidney Rigdon; finally disposes of his case; and installs the Presidency
of the Twelve Apostles which continued until the First Presidency of Three
could be re-established.
This touches what may be regarded as an important factor in the
matter of arranging the transition from one administration in the
Presidency of the Church to another. On the 6th of April, 1830, it was
declared that a record should be kept in the church and that in it Joseph
Smith should be called a "seer, a translator, a prophet, an apostle of
Jesus Christ, an elder of the church through the will of God the Father,
and the grace of your Lord Jesus Christ, being inspired of the Holy Ghost
to lay the foundation thereof and to build it up unto the Most Holy
Faith."
It will be recognized that there were thus provided, even on the day
the church was organized, very great powers of Presidency and
administrative functions for Joseph Smith in the leadership of the church.
Later the Lord referred to the matter again and that by way of
warning to the Prophet: "And I have sent forth the fullness of my gospel
by the hand of my servant Joseph; and in weakness have I blessed him: and
I have given unto him the keys of the mystery of those things which have
been sealed. even things which were from the foundation of the world, and
the things which shall come from this time until the time of my coming, if
he abide in me, and if not, another will I plant in his stead."
In another revelation the Lord enlarged upon this theme as follows:
"Hearken ye elders of my church, and give ear to the words which I shall
speak unto you. For behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye have
received a commandment for a law unto my church. through him whom I have
appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelation from my hand.
And this ye shall know assuredly---that there is none other appointed unto
you to receive commandments and revelations until he be taken if he abide
in me. But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none else shall be
appointed unto this gift except it he through him, for if it be taken from
him he shall not have power except to appoint another in his stead."
This makes known the fact that though the Prophet should not even
abide in the Lord he would still have power left to appoint another in his
stead; and how much more would he be competent to appoint another in his
stead if he continued to abide in the Lord!
This right to appoint another in his stead the Prophet Joseph
exercised, occasioned by his own approaching martyrdom. At the October
Conference---the 6th, 1844---the conference following the martyrdom of the
Prophet---in the presence of thousands making up the congregation,
President Young asked the question: "Did Joseph ordain any man to take his
place: He did. Who was it? It was Hyrum [his brother], but Hyrum fell a
martyr before Joseph did". Holding in mind that the Lord has said that
the Prophet Joseph Smith should not have taken from him the splendid
powers of Presidency given to him for the guidance of the church---if he
would "abide in the Lord". And in the event of his not abiding in the
Lord, then he should not have power---"except to appoint another in his
stead." It is clear that the Prophet was acting within his rights to
appoint another to succeed himself in the Presidency of the Church when he
appointed
Hyrum to succeed him. For surely, if when not abiding in the Lord he
would still have power to appoint another in the prophetic office, and to
succeed him in the Presidency of the Church, much more would he have the
right to make the appointment when continuing to abide in the Lord. And
this power he exercised; according to President Young he even "ordained"
Hyrum to succeed him; but Hyrum, according to Joseph's own statement,
would not leave him.
In like manner the Christ designated St. Peter to succeed him in the
leadership of the church, by saying: "I will give unto thee the keys of
the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be
bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed
in heaven." Thus did the Christ before his crucifixion appoint his
successor in the Presidency of the Church in that dispensation.
Thus the Prophet Joseph Smith in appointing Hyrum Smith to be his
successor in the leadership of the New Dispensation Church, did but follow
the example of his divine Lord. But with Hyrum Smith falling a martyr
before the Prophet Joseph Smith himself: did, there was, of course, an end
to that appointment: it had no chance to be presented to the people for
approval, which, of course, would have been necessary as in the case of
all officers in the church, or before the sub-division of it over which it
is proposed they should exercise presiding jurisdiction. Also it amounts
to certainty that had Hyrum Smith survived his brother, and his name had
been presented to the church as its President, he would have been
overwhelmingly sustained by the saints for the office. But Hyrum dead
before the Prophet was killed, it left no one else designated for the
place of President, and hence choice and reconstruction of the Presidency
devolved upon the next quorum in authority---the Twelve Apostles, which
also is not only the "next" quorum in authority, but also "equal" in
authority to the First Presidency, and therefore capable of doing
whatever the First Presidency could do. It was under this quorum and its
authority that President-Brigham Young and his fellow Apostles proceeded
to their construction of the First Presidency.
Part V of volume VII constitutes the larger section of the volume and
consists of transcriptions from the Manuscript History of Brigham Young,
to the close of the year 1848, and is the most important quotation of
original documents to be had covering that period of time, setting forth
the administration of the Twelve Apostles under the leadership of
President Young. The value of this collection from original sources is
beyond instant realization. As in the quotations from the Journal of
Joseph Smith in the preceding six volumes of this series, so this section
in volume VII gives the day by day and incident by incident transactions
of the Apostles, disclosing the very spirit and administrative effects of
the procedure and policies of their period. It is a most profitable
contribution to the annals of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. In it are revealed the truly and highly spiritual and unselfish
efforts of the Twelve in directing the affairs of the church to the
advantage of the organization and to the welfare of the saints. Their
solicitude, watchfulness and prayerful interest in all the departments of
the work of God are marvelous. The missionary service of the church in all
the world was universal and untiring: throughout the United States, the
Pacific groups of islands, the work in England. Also the local interests:
the building up of Nauvoo, the completion of the Temple, the unstinted
pouring of the contributed wealth of the people into its structural
completion and interior embellishment, notwithstanding that they knew they
could hold possession of it but a few months, and then it must be
abandoned. It was the heroic and unselfish adherence to a completion of a
commandment of God.
Nor did their zeal and sacrifices go unrewarded; for from December
10th, 1845, when the first endowments were given, to the 7th of February,
1846---when the Temple was closed for ordinance work---5,669 ordinances
had been performed. These mostly for full endowment ceremonies, as the
church in the main knows those ordinances today, However, some baptisms
for the dead merely may have been recorded in the enumeration; also there
may be slight variations above or below the figures here given; as the
daily numbers, from which this total is made up, are occasionally given in
round numbers. But think of the work accomplished, 5,669 endowments given!
After full allowance is made for all slight variations that may have
occurred, the official report makes it certain that over 5,500 endowments
had been given in the Nauvoo Temple! So many of the saints entrusted with
the sacred mysteries of the House of the Lord!
Meantime both the officers and church membership were making every
exertion to prepare the church for removal to the west in fulfillment of
the predictions of the Prophet Joseph Smith sometime previous to his
death. In addition to this was their contention with authorities in high
station in the state, more menacing to their security than the murderous
assaults of mobs. In all things there was manifested a union of spirit and
effort of the Apostles that proclaimed them true disciples of the Lord.
They were a perfect example of a group united in one, a well-nigh perfect
unanimity of purpose and action seemed to prevail. The spirit of the
Christian religion was manifested in their forbearance and long continued
patience with men of restless ambition who sought to divide the people and
lead away groups of them. Such men as James Emmett who led a company of
people into the western wilderness; Lyman Wight one of the Quorum of the
Twelve, who led a company of people into Texas; Bishop George Miller,
always restive under restraint, who broke away from the main group of the
people, impatient with whit he thought was the too slow action of
President Young and his brethren; their patience with Wm. Smith, one of
the Twelve, then, and later Patriarch to the church, and brother of the
Prophet. Their action in his trying case was a model of brotherly
forbearance. Their uniform kindness and care for the Mother of the Prophet
exhibited a truly Christian spirit and disproves the charges against the
Twelve, that are sometimes made by dissentients, of tyranny,
self-aggrandizement, and inordinate, and self-seeking ambition.
In all things the Twelve manifested their faith in prayer. God was
their only refuge, as manifested in their constant appeal, to him in their
days of trial. No one can read the annals of this volume and be in doubt
of that; in sickness, in danger; in missionary undertakings; against the
violence of mobs; in coping with the cunningly devised plans of political
leaders, corrupted courts and scheming adventurers ---against all these
forces they employed the power of faith and prayer. But read the annals of
the trying years covered by this volume of the History of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and you have in hand the world's finest
example of faith and trust in God through prayer. Was one sick, the others
prayed; was some group wayward, and rebellious, a circle met in prayer;
did influential men in high places meet to conspire against them, the
brethren sought to thwart their plans by an appeal to God through prayer;
was one or more unjustly haled into the courts before unjust judges,
prayer softened their hearts or confused their judgments; did mobs assail,
did hell rage---prayer was both sword and shield. That all this may appear
I take a cross section in Nauvoo experiences for an illustration which is
but characteristic of the whole period.
I select items from the record of the months of August and September,
1844--in free quotation--and set down the direct experiences which
illustrate the procedure of these presiding brethren that will indicate
the spirit of the work they undertook and carried through. Under date of
August 10, 1844, the day following the settlement of the Twelve Apostles
as the Presiding Authority of the Church---this:
"The city council subscribed about $80.00 for the aid of the police.
In addition to this really inadequate compensation Brigham Young, Heber C.
Kimball, George A. Smith and Hyrum Kimball relinquished their dues as
councilors that the taxes might be lessened and the police be paid.* * *
Daniel Spencer was elected to fill the remainder of the term of the late
Mayor Joseph Smith. An ordinance was passed allowing $100.00 per year to
the mayor, and $1.00 a day to the councilors and aldermen while in
session. * * * Also an ordinance prohibiting brothels and for suppressing
disorderly characters was passed.
Wednesday, August 14.---[Brigham Young recording the incidents
throughout] I attended meeting of the Twelve, Temple Committee and Nauvoo
House Committee and the stone cutters for the Temple. * * * Agreed to
raise the wages of the windlass men to $1.50 per day. The meeting
terminated in a feeling of renewed determination to prosecute the work on
the Temple.
Thursday, August 15.---The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met at my
house. * * * The council resolved to bear off the kingdom of God in all
the world in truth, virtue and holiness, and to continue to set their
faces as a flint against every species of wickedness, vice and dishonesty
in all its forms: I met in a prayer circle with the Twelve and a few
others in the afternoon and prayed for the sick."
RECOGNIZING THE PROPHET JOSEPH'S PLACE IN THE NEW DISPENSATION "Let
no man presume for a moment that his place will be filled by another, for,
remember, he stands in his own place, and always will; and the Twelve
Apostles of this dispensation stand in their own place and always will
both in time and eternity to minister, preside and regulate the affairs of
the whole church. * * * How vain are the imaginations of the children of
men to presume for a moment that the slaughter of one, two, or a hundred
of the leaders of this church could destroy an organization so perfect in
itself and so harmoniously arranged that it will stand while one member of
it is left upon the earth."
PROPHET'S COPY Of THE NEW TRANSLATION OF THE BIBLE "Monday, August
19,---Elder Willard Richards called on Emma Smith, widow of the Prophet,
for the new translation of the Bible. She said she did not feel disposed
to give it up at present
Wednesday, August 21.----Council of the Twelve Apostles at my house
to meet Elder Lyman Wight. Elder John Taylor went after him with a
carriage; found him sick and unable to attend. Sociable gathering of a
number of the Twelve at Wilford Woodruff's. The brethren were accompanied
with their wives. Elder Woodruff was blessed and set apart for his mission
to England under the hands of the members of the quorum of the Twelve
Apostles present."
BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD RESUMED Several of the Twelve Apostles were
baptized for their dead this same afternoon. This (August 24th) was the
first renewal of baptisms for the dead since the death of the Prophet
Joseph, The ordinance took place in the temporary baptismal font in the
Temple.
"Tuesday, August 27.---Met with the officers of the Nauvoo Legion in
council. Six of the Apostles were present. The council decided that they
would carry out all the views of their martyred Prophet: The brethren felt
very spirited on the subject
Thursday, August 29.---This was fast day and I attended meeting at
the stand and laid hands on several of the sick.
Wednesday, September 4.---Willard Richards sick. The Twelve
Apostles and a few others met at my house in the evening and prayed
for the preservation of the church and ourselves and that the Lord might
bind up the apostates and preserve the honest in heart
Thursday, September 5.---Everyone attended public prayer meeting and
exposed the false prophets.
Friday, September 6.---Elder Heber C. Kimball and I visited the sick
until 2 p. m.
Saturday, September 7.---Accompanied by Elder Kimball I waited upon
Elder John P. Greene and attended to ordinances for him: He was on his
deathbed.
Monday, September 9.---I attended council with the Quorum of the
Twelve at Elder Heber C. Kimball's. Thence I went in company with Elder
Kimball through the city attending to business and visiting Elder John P.
Greene and Parley P. Pratt who were sick.
Monday, September 9.----The wayward labored with Elder Heber C.
Kimball and George A. Smith labored diligently with James Emmett that he
might be persuaded to desist from his intended course of taking away a
party of misguided saints into the wilderness
Friday, September 13.---In company with Brother Heber C. Kimball and
his wife, Vilate, I visited Mother Lucy Smith, Mother of the Prophet.
Same day.---Reports concerning the movement of the mob who are making
preparations for what they call a `wolf hunt' on the 26th and 27th of this
month. * * * They design coming and attempting to drag some more
authorities of the church out to Carthage to murder them.
Saturday, September 14.---In company with Elders Heber C. Kimball and
George A. Smith I called on Sister Hyrum Smith.
Elder Amasa M. Lyman being very sick and reported to be dying.
Brothers Kimball and George A. Smith and I retired to my upper room
(prayer room) and prayed for him; he was healed from that very hour.
Evening, visited Brother Amasa M. Lyman (sick nigh unto death).
Monday, September 16.--Building of an arsenal in Nauvoo near the
temple for housing the arms of the people. I went to the ground secured
for the ARsenal. We uncovered our heads and lifted our hands to heaven and
I dedicated the ground by prayer to the God of the armies of Israel. I
took the spade and broke the ground for the cellar.
Thursday, September 19.--At home, waiting upon my wife who is very
sick. The saints called upon me for counsel and direction.
Friday, September 20.--Attending to ordinances in behalf of the
saints and laying hands on the sick. The Lord is with me continually.
Sunday, September 22.--Governor's agent arrived in Nauvoo. Elder John
Taylor made affidavits against T. C. Sharp and Levi Williams, two of the
murderers of Joseph Smith.
Monday, September 23.--This evening Sheriff Deming came into Nauvoo
for a Mormon posse to take Sharp and Williams. The Twelve decided that it
was imprudent to take Mormons for that purpose and advised him
accordingly.
Tuesday, September 24.--I attended council at Winsor P. Lyons. Six
of the brethren of the Twelve were present, and Elder Joseph Young [senior
President of the Seventy]. We selected seventy presidents to preside over
the seventies--over the ten quorums of the seventies then in
contemplation, and fifty high priests to preside over different sections
of the country.
Thursday, September 26.--The Quincy militia [state troops] were
escorted about town by the Nauvoo band--(act of courtesy on the part of
the Nauvoo band).
Held a council at the Temple office and appointed four watchmen to
watch the Temple tonight. Some of Wight's Company have come to town and
they report that they have come to deface the capitals [placed upon the
columns of the Temple] and burn the lumber around the Temple.
Friday, September 27.--This was the day set apart by the anti-Mormons
for the great `wolf hunt'.
Governor's troops came into Nauvoo to revert the purpose of it and
the hunt failed. Several of the staff officers of the Nauvoo Legion
appeared in uniform without arms, which the governor regarded as a hint to
remind him of his disarming the Legion previous to the massacre of Joseph
and Hyrum Smith.
Sunday, September 29.--I attended meeting. * * * Afternoon, I went to
the Seventies' Hall and ordained the sixty-three members of the First
Quorum of Seventy to be presidents over the quorums from the second to the
tenth inclusive.
Monday, September 30.--I breakfasted at Elder Heber C. Kimball's. We
laid hands on the sick and visited Mother Lucy Smith.
The Twelve used their influence to prevent the brethren and sisters
from attending the ball given by William Marks. The same was to come off
on Wednesday evening in the dining room of the Mansion, which was still
stained with the blood which flowed from Joseph and Hyrum as their bodies
lay in said room preparatory to burial.
Tuesday, October 1, 1844.--Evening, attended a meeting of the Quorum
of the Twelve for prayer. A very interesting session."
So throughout. These men, Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ, were
devoted to prayer and the power thereof, nor could aught shake them from
that anchorage. It was par excellence the period of prayer in the church;
and of works, too, for nothing could exceed their activity; faith and
works were evenly balanced; none could be more thoroughly convinced than
they that "faith without works is dead, being alone." And so faith and
works went hand in hand in this period, and held a great and disinherited
and expatriated people together; and transported them across the plains
and over the mountains to where they found refuge from their temporary
ills, and sanctuary; and place and means to lengthen their cords and
strengthen their stakes--a period for development.
In no other way can men of this and future generations so well learn
"the faith of their fathers", or their character, than by a study of this
sector of the Church History recorded in the annals of volume VII.
I. CHURCH HISTORIANS' EXCERPTS FROM FORD'S HISTORY OF ILLINOIS
HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
VOLUME VII
PERIOD II
FROM THE MANUSCRIPT HISTORY OF BRIGHAM YOUNG
AND OTHER ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS
CHAPTER I.
CONDITIONS IN HANCOCK COUNTY REVIEWED BY GOVERNOR FORD----THE STATE
ARMS OF THE LEGION SURRENDERED ON THE DEMAND OF THE GOVERNOR
Explanation
THE following lengthy excerpt from the History of Illinois by Thomas Ford,
Governor of that State from 1842-6 was made by the Historians of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, George A. Smith and Wilford
Woodruff---1862---and published in the Millennial Star of that year (Vol.
xxiv, pp. 519-584 passim). It is taken from Ford's History in unbroken
quotation from page 329 to page 354. In a brief paragraph preceding this
quotation (p. 328) the governor had said in commenting upon the character
of the Mormon people: "Upon the whole, if one-half of these reports had
been true [i. e. reports derogatory of their character] the Mormon
community must have been the most intolerable collection of rogues ever
assembled; or, if one-half them were false, they were the most maligned
and abused." The beginning of the Historians' excerpt:
REVIEW OF GOVERNOR FORD'S PERFORMANCES "Governor Ford is certainly a
man who performed mighty wonders. He not only compelled two innocent men,
by virtue of his office as Governor of Illinois, to go before two
different magistrates on the same charge, contrary to the Constitution and
laws of the state; to surrender themselves into the custody of a mob
magistrate (not the one who issued the writ); go to prison under a
military guard on an illegal mittimus, granted contrary to law, without
any examination; put in a criminal cell without having been examined for
crime; brought them out of prison contrary to law; thrust them back again
under the most solemn and sacred pledges of his personal faith, and the
faith of the state, for their protection; guarded them with men whom he
knew to be treacherous, and to have resolved on the death of the
prisoners, until they were murdered in cold blood, and then professed to
be `thunderstruck'!
It is our wish to do strict justice to the memory of this heroic
governor, who, in addition to the above-named mighty achievements, on his
deathbed bequeathed to the astounded world a volume of 447 pages,
entitled, `History of Illinois from 1818 to 1847, containing a full
account of the rise, progress, and fall of Mormonism', etc,, from which we
copy the following:---
GOVERNOR FORD'S STATEMENT `But the great cause of popular fury was,
that the Mormons at several preceding elections had cast their vote as a
unit, thereby making the fact apparent that no one could aspire to the
honors or offices of the country, within the sphere of their influence,
without their approbation and votes. It appears to be one of the
principles by which they insist upon being governed as a community, to act
as a unit in all matters of government and religion. They express
themselves to be fearful that if division should be encouraged in
politics, it would soon extend to their religion, and rend their church
with schism and into sects.
This seems to me to be an unfortunate view of the subject, and more
unfortunate in practice, as I am well satisfied that it must be the
fruitful source of excitement, violence, and mobocracy, whilst it is
persisted in. It is indeed unfortunate for their peace that they do not
divide in elections, according to their individual preferences or
political principles, like other people.
This one principle and practice of theirs arrayed against them in
deadly hostility all aspirants for office who were not sure of their
support, all who have been unsuccessful in elections, and all who were too
proud to court their influence, with all their friends and connections.
These also were the active men in blowing up the fury of the people,
in hopes that a popular movement might be set on foot which would result
in the expulsion or extermination of the Mormon voters. For this purpose,
public meetings had been called, inflammatory speeches had been made,
exaggerated reports had been extensively circulated, committees had been
appointed, who rode night and day to spread the reports, and solicit the
aid of neighboring counties. And at a public meeting at Warsaw,
resolutions were passed to expel or exterminate the Mormon population.
This was not, however, a movement which was unanimously concurred in.
The county contained a goodly number of inhabitants in favor of peace, or
who at least desired to be neutral in such a contest. These were
stigmatized by the name of Jack-Mormons, and there were not a few of the
more furious exciters of the people who openly expressed their intention
to involve them in the common expulsion or extermination.
A system of excitement and agitation was artfully planned and
executed with tact. It consisted in spreading reports and rumors of the
most fearful character.
As examples: On the morning before my arrival at Carthage [June 21,
1844], I was awakened at an early hour by the frightful report, which was
asserted with confidence and apparent consternation, that the Mormons had
already commenced the work of burning, destruction, and murder, and that
every man capable of bearing arms was instantly wanted at Carthage for the
protection of the country. We lost no time in starting; but when we
arrived at Carthage we could hear no more concerning this story.
Again: during the few days that the militia were encamped at
Carthage, frequent applications were made to me to send a force here and a
force there, and a force all about the country, to prevent murders,
robberies, and larcenies, which it was said were threatened by the
Mormons. No such forces were sent, nor were any such offenses committed at
that time, except the stealing of some provisions, and there was never the
least proof that this was done by a Mormon.
Again: on my late visit to Hancock county, I was informed by some of
their violent enemies that the larcenies of the Mormons had become
unusually numerous and insufferable. They indeed admitted that but little
had been done in this way in their immediate vicinity; but they insisted
that sixteen horses had been stolen by the Mormons in one night, near
Lima, in the county of Adams.
At the close of the expedition, I called at this same town of Lima,
and upon inquiry was told that no horses had been stolen in that
neighborhood, but that sixteen horses had been stolen in one night in
Hancock county. This last informant being told of the Hancock story, again
changed the venue to another distant settlement in the northern edge of
Adams.
As my object in visiting Hancock [county] was expressly to assist in
the execution of the laws, and not to violate them, or to witness or
permit their violation, as I was convinced that the Mormon leaders had
committed a crime in the destruction of the press, and had resisted the
execution of process, I determined to exert the whole force of the state,
if necessary, to bring them to justice.
But seeing the great excitement in the public mind, and the manifest
tendency of this excitement to run into mobocracy, I was of opinion that
before I acted I ought to obtain a pledge from the officers and men to
support me in strictly legal measures, and to protect the prisoners in
case they surrendered; for I was determined, if possible, that the forms
of law should not be made the catspaw of a mob, to seduce these people to
a quiet surrender, as the convenient victims of popular fury.
I therefore called together the whole force then assembled at
Carthage, and made an address, explaining to them what I could, and what I
could not legally do, and also adducing to them various reasons why they,
as well as the Mormons, should submit to the laws, and why, if they had
resolved upon revolutionary proceedings, their purpose should be
abandoned.
The assembled troops seemed much pleased with the address, and upon
its conclusion the officers and men unanimously voted, with acclamation,
to sustain me in a strictly legal course, and that the prisoners should be
protected from violence.
Upon the arrival of additional forces from Warsaw, McDonough, and
Schuyler, similar addresses were made, with the same result.
It seemed to me that these votes fully authorized me to promise the
accused Mormons the protection of the law in case they surrendered.
They were accordingly duly informed that if they surrendered they
would be protected, and if they did not, the whole force of the state
would be called out, if necessary, to compel their submission. A force of
ten men was despatched with the constable to make the arrests and to guard
the prisoners to headquarters.
In the meantime, Joe Smith, as Lieutenant-General of the Nauvoo
Legion, had declared martial law in the city. The Legion was assembled,
and ordered under arms. The members of it residing in the country were
ordered into town. The Mormon settlements obeyed the summons of their
leader, and marched to his assistance. Nauvoo was one great military camp,
strictly guarded and watched, and no ingress or egress was allowed except
upon the strictest examination.
In one instance, which came to my knowledge, a citizen of McDonough,
who happened to be in the city, was denied the privilege of returning
until he made oath that he did not belong to the party at Carthage, that
he would return home without calling at Carthage, and that he would give
no information of the movement of the Mormons.
However, upon the arrival of the constable and guard, the mayor,
Joseph Smith, and common council at once signified their willingness to
surrender, and stated their readiness to proceed to Carthage next morning
at eight o'clock. Martial law had previously been abolished.
The hour of eight o'clock came, and the accused failed to make their
appearance. The constable and his escort returned. The constable made no
effort to arrest any of them, nor would he or the guard delay their
departure one minute beyond the time, to see whether an arrest could be
made.
Upon their return they reported that they had been informed that the
accused had fled and could not be found.
I immediately proposed to a council of officers to march into Nauvoo
with the small force then under my command, but the officers were of
opinion that it was too small, and many of them insisted upon a further
call of the militia.
Upon reflection I was of opinion that the officers were right in the
estimate of our force, and the project for immediate action was abandoned.
I was soon informed, however, of the conduct of the constable and
guard, and then I was perfectly satisfied that a most base fraud had been
attempted; that, in fact, it was feared that the Mormons would submit, and
thereby entitle themselves to the protection of the law.
It was very apparent that many of the bustling, active spirits were
afraid that there would be no occasion for calling out an overwhelming
militia force, for marching it into Nauvoo, for probable mutiny when
there, and for the extermination of the Mormon race. It appeared that the
constable and the escort were fully in the secret, and acted well their
part to promote the conspiracy.
Seeing this to be the state of the case, I delayed any further call
of the militia, to give the accused another opportunity to surrender, for
indeed I was most anxious to avoid a general call for the militia at that
critical season of the year.
The whole spring season preceding had been unusually wet. No
ploughing of corn had been done, and but very little planting. The season
had just changed to be suitable for ploughing. The crops which had been
planted were universally suffering, and the loss of two weeks, or even of
one, at that time, was likely to produce a general famine all over the
country.
The wheat harvest was also approaching; and if we got into a war,
there was no foreseeing when it would end, or when the militia could
safely be discharged.
In addition to these considerations, all the grist-mills in all that
section of the country had been swept away, or disabled, by the high
waters, leaving the inhabitants almost without meal or flour, and making
it impossible then to procure provisions by impressment or otherwise, for
the sustenance of any considerable force.
This was the time of the high waters, of astonishing floods in all
the rivers and creeks in the western country, The Mississippi river at St.
Louis was several feet higher than it was ever known before; it was up
into the second stories of the warehouses on Water Street. The steamboats
ran up to these warehouses, and could scarcely receive their passengers
from the second stories. The whole American [Missouri] bottom was
overflowed from eight to twenty feet deep, and steamboats freely crossed
the bottom along the road from St. Louis to the opposite bluffs in
Illinois. Houses and fences and stock of all kinds were swept away, the
fields near the river, after the water subsided, being covered with sand
from a foot to three feet deep, which was generally thrown into ridges and
washed into gullies, so as to spoil the land for cultivation.
Families had great difficulty in making their escape, Through the
active exertions of Mr. Pratt, the mayor of St. Louis, steamboats were
sent in every direction to their relief. The boats found many of the
families on the tops of their houses, just ready to be floated away.
The inhabitants of the bottom lost nearly all their personal
property. A large number of them were taken to St. Louis in a state of
entire destitution, and their necessities were supplied by the
contributions of the charitable of that city. A larger number were forced
out on to the Illinois bluffs, where they encamped, and were supplied with
provisions by the neighboring inhabitants.
This freshet nearly ruined the ancient village of Kaskaskia. The
inhabitants were driven away and scattered, many of them never to return.
For many years before this flood there had been a flourishing
institution at Kaskaskia, under the direction of an order of nuns of the
Catholic Church. They had erected an extensive building, which was
surrounded and filled by the waters to the second story; but they were all
safely taken away, pupils and all, by a steamboat which was sent to their
relief, and which ran directly up to the building and received its inmates
from the second story. This school was now transferred to St. Louis, where
it yet remains,
All the rivers and streams in Illinois were as high, and did as much
damage in proportion to their length and the extent of their bottoms, as
the Mississippi.
This great flood destroyed the last hope of getting provisions at
home, and I was totally without funds belonging to the state, with which
to purchase at more distant markets, and there was a certainty that such
purchases could not have been made on credit abroad. For these reasons I
was desirous of avoiding a war, if it could be avoided.
In the meantime, I made a requisition upon the officers of the Nauvoo
Legion for the state arms in their possession. It appears that there was
no evidence in the quartermaster-general office of the number and
description of arms with which the Legion had been furnished.
Dr. Bennett, after he had been appointed quarter-master-general, had
joined the Mormons, and had disposed of the public arms as he pleased,
without keeping or giving any account of them.
On this subject I applied to General Wilson Law for information. He
had lately been the major-general of the Legion. He had seceded from the
Mormon party; was one of the owners of the proscribed press, had left the
city, as he said, in fear of his life; and was one of the party asking for
justice against its constituted authorities, He was interested to
exaggerate the number of arms rather than to place it at too low an
estimate.
From his information I learned that the Legion had received three
pieces of cannon and about two hundred and fifty stand of small arms and
their accoutrements. Of these, the three pieces of cannon and two hundred
and twenty stand of small arms were surrendered. These arms were demanded
because the Legion was illegally used in the destruction of the press and
in enforcing martial law in the city, in open resistance to legal process
and the posse comitatus.
I demanded the surrender also on account of the great prejudice and
excitement which the possession of these arms by the Mormons had kindled
in the minds of the people.
A large portion of the people, by pure misrepresentation, had been
made to believe that the Legion had received of the state as many as
thirty pieces of artillery and five or six thousand stand of small arms,
which in all probability, would soon be wielded for the conquest of the
country, and for their subjection to Mormon domination.
I was of opinion that the removal of these arms would tend much to
allay this excitement and prejudice, and, in point of fact, although
wearing a severe aspect, would be an act of real kindness to the Mormons
themselves.' "
CHAPTER II.
SUBMISSION OF THE PROPHET TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE
GOVERNOR----GATHERING OF THE ENEMY FORCES OF THE
PROPHET----GOVERNOR FORD'S DEFENSIVE JUSTIFICATION FOR HIS PLACEMENT
OF THE HOSTILE FORCES AT CARTHAGE AND THE DISMISSAL OF OTHERS
On the 23rd or 24th day of June, Joe Smith, the mayor of Nauvoo,
together with his brother Hyrum, and all the members of the council, and
all others demanded, came into Carthage and surrendered themselves
prisoners to the constable on the charge of riot.
They all voluntarily entered into a recognizance before the justice
of the peace for their appearance at court to answer the charge, and all
of them were discharged from custody except Joe and Hyrum Smith, against
whom the magistrate had issued a new writ on a complaint of treason, They
were immediately arrested by the constable on this charge, and retained in
his custody to answer it.
The overt act of treason charged against them consisted in the
alleged levying of war against the state by declaring martial law in
Nauvoo, and in ordering out the Legion to resist the posse comitatus.
Their actual guiltiness of the charge would depend upon circumstances.
If their opponents had been seeking to put the law in force in good
faith, and nothing more, then an array of military force in open
resistance to the posse comitatus and the militia of the state most
probably would have amounted to treason.
But if those opponents merely intended to use the process of the law,
the militia of the state, and the posse comitatus, as catspaws to compass
the possessions of their persons for the purpose of murdering them
afterwards, as the sequel demonstrated the fact to be, it might well be
doubted whether they were guilty of treason.
Soon after the surrender of the Smiths, at their request I dispatched
Captain Singleton with his company from Brown county to Nauvoo, to guard
the town, and I authorized him to take command of the Legion. He reported
to me afterwards, that he called out the Legion for inspection, and that
upon two hours' notice two thousand of them assembled, all of them armed,
and this after the public arms had been taken away from them. So it
appears that they had a sufficiency of private arms for any reasonable
purpose.
After the Smiths had been arrested on the new charge of treason, the
justice of the peace postponed the examination, because neither of the
parties were prepared with their witnesses for trial. In the meantime, he
committed them to the jail of the county for greater security.
In all this matter the justice of the peace and constable, though
humble in office, were acting in a high and independent capacity, far
beyond any legal power in me to control. I considered that the executive
power could only be called in to assist, and not to dictate or control
their action; that in the humble sphere of their duties they were as
independent, and clothed with as high authority by the law, as the
executive department, and that my province was simply to aid them with the
force of the state.
It is true, that so far as I could prevail on them by advice, I
endeavored to do so. The prisoners were not in military custody, or
prisoners of war, and I
could no more legally control these officers than I could the
superior courts of justice.
Some persons have supposed that I ought to have had them sent to some
distant and friendly part of the state for confinement and trial, and that
I ought to have searched them for concealed arms; but these surmises and
suppositions are readily disposed of by the fact, that they were not my
prisoners, but were the prisoners of the constable and jailor, under the
direction of the justice of the peace; and, also, by the fact that by law
they could be tried in no other county than Hancock.
The jail in which they were confined is a considerable stone
building, containing a residence for the jailor, cells for the close and
secure confinement of the prisoners, and one larger room, not so strong,
but More airy and comfortable than the cells, They were put into the cells
by the jailor; but upon their remonstrance and request, and by my advice,
they were transferred to the larger room, and there they remained until
the final catastrophe. Neither they nor I seriously apprehended an attack
on the jail through the guard stationed to protect it, nor did I apprehend
the least danger on their part of an attempt to escape, for I was very
sure that any such an attempt would have been the signal of their
immediate death. Indeed, if they had escaped, it would have been fortunate
for the purposes of those who were anxious for the expulsion of the Mormon
population, for the great body of that people would most assuredly have
followed their Prophet and principal leaders, as they did in their flight
from Missouri.
I learned afterwards that the leaders of the anti-Mormons did much to
stimulate their followers to the murder of the Smiths in jail, by alleging
that the governor intended to favor their escape. If this had been true,
and could have been well carried out, it would have been the best way of
getting rid of the Mormons. These leaders of the Mormons would never have
dared to return, and they would have been followed in their flight by all
their church, I had such plan in my mind, but I had never breathed it to a
living soul, and was thus thwarted in ridding the state of the Mormons two
years before they actually left, by the insane frenzy of the anti-Mormons.
Joe Smith, when he escaped from Missouri, had no difficulty in again
collecting his sect about him at Nauvoo; and so the Twelve Apostles, after
they had been at the head of affairs long enough to establish their
authority and influence as leaders, had no difficulty in getting nearly
the whole body of Mormons to follow them into the wilderness two years
after the death of their pretended Prophet.
The force assembled at Carthage amounted to about twelve or thirteen
hundred men, and it was calculated that four or five hundred more were
assembled at Warsaw. Nearly all that portion resident in Hancock were
anxious to be marched into Nauvoo.
This measure was supposed to be necessary to search for counterfeit
money and the apparatus to make it, and also to strike a salutary terror
into the Mormon people by an exhibition of the force of the state, and
thereby prevent future outrages, murders, robberies, burnings, and the
like, apprehended as the effect of Mormon vengeance on those who had taken
a part against them.
On my part, at one time, this arrangement was agreed to. The morning
of the 27th day of June was appointed for the march, and Golden's Point,
near the Mississippi river, and about equi-distant from Nauvoo and Warsaw,
was selected as the place of rendezvous.
I had determined to prevail on the justice to bring out his
prisoners, and take them along. A council of officers, however, determined
that this would be highly inexpedient and dangerous, and offered such
substantial reasons for their opinions as induced me to change my
resolution.
Two or three days' preparation had been made for this expedition. I
observed that some of the people became more and more excited and
inflammatory the further the preparations were advanced. Occasional
threats came to my ears of destroying the city and murdering or expelling
the inhabitants.
I had no objection to ease the terrors of the people by such a
display of force, and was most anxious also to search for the alleged
apparatus for making counterfeit money; and, in fact, to inquire into all
the charges against that people, if I could have been assured of my
command against mutiny and insubordination. But I gradually learned, to my
entire satisfaction, that there was a plan to get the troops into Nauvoo,
and there to begin the war, probably by some of our own party, or some of
the seceding Mormons taking advantage of the night to fire on our own
force, and then laying it on the Mormons.
I was satisfied that there were those amongst us fully capable of
such an act, hoping that in the alarm, bustle and confusion of a militia
camp, the truth could not be discovered, and that it might lead to the
desired collision.
I had many objections to be made the dupe of any such or similar
artifice. I was openly and boldly opposed to any attack on the city,
unless it should become necessary, to arrest prisoners legally charged and
demanded. Indeed, if anyone will reflect upon the number of women,
inoffensive and young persons, and innocent children, which must be
contained in such a city of twelve or fifteen thousand inhabitants, it
would seem to me his heart would relent and rebel against such violent
resolutions. Nothing but the most blinded and obdurate fury could incite a
person, even if he had the power, to the willingness of driving such
persons, bare and houseless, on to the prairies, to starve, suffer, and
even steal, as they must have done, for subsistence. No one who has
children of his own would think of it for a moment.
Besides this, if we had been ever so much disposed to commit such an
act of wickedness, we evidently had not the power to do it. I was well
assured that the Mormons, at a short notice, could muster as many as two
or three thousand well-armed men. We had not more than seventeen hundred,
with three pieces of cannon, and about twelve hundred stand of small arms,
We had provisions for two days only, and would be compelled to disband at
the end of that time. To think of beginning a war under such circumstances
was a plain absurdity.
If the Mormons had succeeded in repulsing our attack, as most likely
would have been the case, the country must necessarily be given up to
their ravages until a new force could be assembled, and provisions made
for its subsistence. Or if we should have succeeded in driving them from
their city, they would have scattered; and, being justly incensed at our
barbarity, and suffering with privation and hunger, would have spread
desolation all over the country, without any possibility on our part, with
the force we then had, of preventing it. Again, they would have had the
advantage of being able to subsist their force in the field by plundering
their enemies.
All these considerations were duly urged by me upon the attention of
a council of officers, convened on the morning of the 27th of June. I also
urged upon the council that such wanton and unprovoked barbarity on their
part would turn the sympathy of the people in the surrounding counties in
favor of the Mormons, and therefore it would be impossible to raise a
volunteer militia force to protect such a people against them. Many of the
officers admitted that there might be danger of collision. But such was
the blind fury prevailing at the time, though not showing itself by much
visible excitement, that a small majority of the council adhered to the
first resolution of marching into Nauvoo; most of the officers of the
Schuyler and McDonough militia voting against it, and most of those of the
county of Hancock voting in its favor.
A Very responsible duty now devolved upon me, to determine whether I
would, as commander-in-chief, be governed by the advice of this majority.
I had no hesitation in deciding that I would not; but on the contrary, I
ordered the troops to be disbanded, both at Carthage and Warsaw, with the
exception of three companies, two of which were retained as a guard to the
jail, and the other was retained to accompany me to Nauvoo.
The officers insisted much in council upon the necessity of marching
to that place to search for apparatus to make counterfeit money, and more
particularly to terrify the Mormons from attempting any open or secret
measures of vengeance against the citizens of the county, who had taken a
part against them or their leaders.
To ease their terrors on this head, I proposed to them that I would
myself proceed to the city, accompanied by a small force, make the
proposed search, and deliver an address to the Mormons, and tell them
plainly what degree of excitement and hatred prevailed against them in the
minds of the whole people, and that if any open or secret violence should
be committed on the persons or property of those who had taken part
against them, that no one would doubt but that it had been perpetrated by
them, and that it would be sure and certain means of the destruction of
their city and the extermination of their people.
I ordered two companies, under the command of Captain R. F. Smith, of
the Carthage Greys, to guard the jail. In selecting these companies, and
particularly the company of the Carthage Greys for this service, I have
been subjected to some censure. It has been said that this company had
already been guilty of mutiny, and had been ordered to be arrested whilst
in the encampment at Carthage, and that they and their officers were the
deadly enemies of the prisoners. Indeed, it would have been difficult to
find friends of the prisoners under my command, unless I had called in the
Mormons as a guard, and this I was satisfied would have led to the
immediate war and the sure death of the prisoners.
It is true that this company had behaved badly towards the
brigadier-general in command on the occasion when the prisoners were
shown along the line of the McDonough militia. This company had been
ordered as a guard. They were under the belief that the prisoners, who
were arrested for a capital offense, were shown to the troops in a kind of
triumph, and that they had been called on as a triumphal escort to grace
the procession. They also entertained a very bad feeling towards the
brigadier-general who commanded their service on the occasion.
The truth is, however, that this company was never ordered to be
arrested; that the Smiths were not shown to the McDonough troops as a mark
of honor and triumph, but were shown to them at the urgent request of the
troops themselves, to gratify their curiosity in beholding persons who had
made themselves so notorious in the country.
When the Carthage Greys ascertained what was the true motive in
showing the prisoners to the troops, they were perfectly satisfied. All
due atonement was made on their part for their conduct to the
brigadier-general, and they cheerfully returned to their duty.
Although I knew that this company were the enemies of the Smiths, yet
I had confidence in their loyalty and integrity, because their captain was
universally spoken of as a most respectable citizen and honorable man. The
company itself was an old independent company, well armed, uniformed and
drilled, and the members of it were the elite of the militia of the
county.
I relied upon this company especially because it was an independent
company, for a long time instructed and practiced in military discipline
and subordination. I also had their word and honor, officers and men, to
do their duty according to law.
Besides all this, the officers and most of the men resided in
Carthage, in the near vicinity of Nauvoo, and, as I thought, must know
that they would make themselves and their property convenient and
conspicuous marks of Mormon vengeance in case they were guilty of
treachery.
I had at first intended to select a guard from the county of
McDonough, but the militia of that county were very much dissatisfied to
remain; their crops were suffering at home, they were in a perfect fever
to be discharged, and I was destitute of provisions to supply them for
more than a few days. They were far from home, where they could not supply
themselves, whilst the Carthage company could board at their own houses,
and would be put to little inconvenience in comparison,
What gave me greater confidence in the selection of this company as a
prudent measure was, that the selection was first suggested and urged by
the brigadier-general in command, who was well known to be utterly hostile
to all mobocracy and violence towards the prisoners, and who was openly
charged by the violent party with being on the side of the Mormons.
At any rate, I knew that the jail would have to be guarded as long as
the prisoners were confined; that an imprisonment for treason might last
the whole summer and the greater part of the autumn before a trial could
be had in the circuit court; that it would be utterly impossible, in the
circumstances of the country, to keep a force there from a foreign county
for so long a time; and that a time must surely come when the duty of
guarding the jail would necessarily devolve on the citizens of the county.
It is true, also, that at this time I had not believed or suspected
that any attack was to be made upon the prisoners in jail. It is true that
I was aware that a great deal of hatred existed against them, and that
there were those who would do them an injury if they could. I had heard of
some threats being made, but none of an attack upon the prisoners whilst
in jail. These threats seemed to be made by individuals not acting in
concert. They were no more than the bluster which might have been
expected, and furnished no indication of numbers combining for this or any
other purpose.
I must here be permitted to say, also, that frequent appeals had been
made to me to make a clean and thorough work of the matter by
exterminating the Mormons or expelling them from the state. An opinion
seemed generally to prevail that the sanction of executive authority would
legalize the act; and all persons of any influence, authority, or note,
who conversed with me on the subject, frequently and repeatedly stated
their total unwillingness to act without my direction, or in any mode
except according to law.
This was a circumstance well calculated to conceal from me the secret
machinations on foot. I had constantly contended against violent measures,
and so had the brigadier-general in command; and I am convinced that
unusual pains were taken to conceal from both of us the secret measures
resolved upon. It has been said, however, that some person named
`Williams', in a public speech at Carthage, called for volunteers to
murder the Smiths, and that I ought to have had him arrested. Whether such
a speech was really made or not is yet unknown to me.'"
CHAPTER III.
GOVERNOR FORD'S VISIT TO NAUVOO----FEARS ON THE WAY----INSULTING SPEECH
TO THE CITIZENS ----RESENTED----HEARS OF THE ASSASSINATION OF JOSEPH
AND HYRUM SMITH
HAVING ordered the guard, and left General Deming in command in
Carthage, and discharged the residue of the militia, I immediately
departed for Nauvoo, eighteen miles distant, accompanied by Colonel
Buckmaster, quartermaster-general, and Captain Dunn's company of dragoons.
After we had proceeded four miles, Colonel Buckmaster intimated to me
a suspicion that an attack would be made upon the jail. He stated the
matter as a mere suspicion, arising from having seen two persons converse
together at Carthage with some air of mystery. I myself entertained no
suspicion of such an attack; at any rate, none before the next day in the
afternoon, because it was notorious that we had departed from Carthage
with the declared intention of being absent at least two days. I could
not believe that any person would attack the jail whilst we were in
Nauvoo, and thereby expose my life and the life of my companions to the
sudden vengeance of the Mormons upon hearing of the death of their
leaders. Nevertheless, acting upon the principle of providing against mere
possibilities, I sent back one of the company with a special order to
Captain Smith to guard the jail strictly, and at the peril of his life,
until my return.
We proceeded on our journey four miles further. By this time I had
convinced myself that no attack would be made on the jail that day or
night. I supposed that a regard for my safety, and the safety of my
companions, would prevent an attack until those to be engaged in it could
be assured of our departure from Nauvoo. I still think that this ought to
have appeared to me to be a reasonable supposition.
I therefore determined at this point to omit making the search for
counterfeit money at Nauvoo, and defer an examination of all the other
abominations charged on that people, in order to return to Carthage that
same night, that I might be on the ground, in person, in time to prevent
an attack upon the jail, if any had been meditated. To this end we called
a halt; the baggage wagons were ordered to remain where they were until
towards evening, and then return to Carthage.
Having made these arrangements, we proceeded on our march, and
arrived at Nauvoo about four o'clock of the afternoon of the 27th day of
June. As soon as notice could be given, a crowd of the citizens assembled
to hear an address which I proposed to deliver to them. The number present
has been variously estimated from one to five thousand.
In this address I stated to them how and in what their functionaries
had violated the laws; also the many scandalous reports in circulation
against them, and that these reports, whether true or false, were
generally believed by the people. I distinctly stated to them the amount
of hatred and prejudice which prevailed everywhere against them, and the
causes of it, at length.
I also told them, plainly and emphatically, that if any vengeance
should be attempted openly or secretly against the persons or property of
the citizens who had taken part against their leaders, that the public
hatred and excitement was such, that thousands would assemble for the
total destruction of their city and the extermination of their people, and
that no power in the state would be able to prevent it.
During this address some impatience and resentment were manifested by
the Mormons at the recital of the various reports enumerated concerning
them, which they strenuously and indignantly denied to be true. They
claimed to be a law-abiding people, and insisted that as they looked to
the law alone for their protection, so were they careful themselves to
observe its provisions.
Upon the conclusion of this address I proposed to take a vote on the
question, whether they would strictly observe the laws even in opposition
to their Prophet and leaders. The vote was unanimous in favor of this
proposition.
The anti-Mormons contended that such a vote from the Mormons
signified nothing; and truly the subsequent history of that people showed
clearly that they were loudest in their professions of attachment to the
law whenever they were guilty of the greatest extravagances; and, in fact,
that they were so ignorant and stupid about matters of law that they had
no means of judging of the legality of their conduct only as they were
instructed by their spiritual leaders.
A short time before sundown we departed on our return to Carthage.
When we had proceeded two miles, we met two individuals, one of them a
Mormon, who informed us that the
Smiths had been assassinated in jail, about five or six o'clock of
that day. The intelligence seemed to strike every one with a kind of
dumbness. As to myself it was perfectly astounding, and I anticipated the
very worst consequences from it.
The Mormons had been represented to me as a lawless, infatuated and
fanatical people, not governed by the ordinary motives which influence the
rest of mankind. If so, most likely an exterminating war would ensue, and
the whole land would be covered with desolation.
Acting upon this supposition, it was my duty to provide as well as I
could for the event. I therefore ordered the two messengers into custody,
and to be returned with us to Carthage. This was done to get time to make
such arrangements as could be made, and to prevent any sudden explosion of
Mormon excitement before they could be written to by their friends at
Carthage.
I also dispatched messengers to Warsaw, to advise the citizens of the
event. But the people there knew all about the matter before my messengers
arrived. They, like myself, anticipated a general attack all over the
country. The women and children were removed across the river, and a
committee was dispatched that night to Quincy for assistance.
The next morning, by daylight, the ringing of the bells in the city
of Quincy announced a public meeting. The people assembled in great
numbers at an early hour. The Warsaw committee stated to the meeting that
a party of Mormons had attempted to rescue the Smiths out of jail; that a
party of Missourians and others had killed the prisoners to prevent their
escape; that the governor and his party were at Nauvoo at the time when
intelligence of the fact was brought there; that they had been attacked by
the Nauvoo Legion, and had retreated to a house where they were then
closely besieged; that the governor had sent out word that he could
maintain his position for two days, and would be certain to be massacred
if assistance did not arrive by the end of that time.
It is unnecessary to say that this entire story was a fabrication. It
was of a piece with the other reports put into circulation by the
anti-Mormon party, to influence the public mind and call the people to
their assistance. The effect of it, however, was that by ten o'clock on
the 28th of June, between two and three hundred men from Quincy, under the
command of Major Flood, embarked on board of a steamboat for Nauvoo, to
assist in raising the siege, as they honestly believed.
As for myself, I was well convinced that those, whoever they were,
who assassinated the Smiths, meditated in turn my assassination by the
Mormons. The very circumstances of the case fully corroborated the
information which I afterwards received, that upon consultation of the
assassins it was agreed amongst them that the murder must be committed
whilst the governor was at Nauvoo; that the Mormons would naturally
suppose that he had planned it; and that in the first outpouring of their
indignation they would assassinate him by way of retaliation; and that
thus they would get clear [rid] of the Smiths and the governor all at
once. They also supposed, that if they could so contrive the matter as to
have the governor of the state assassinated by the Mormons, the public
excitement would be greatly increased against that people, and would
result in their expulsion from the state at least.
Upon hearing of the assassination of the Smiths, I was sensible that
my command was at an end, that my destruction was meditated as well as
that of the Mormons, and that I could not reasonably confide longer in the
one party or in the other.
The question then arose, what would be proper to be done. A war was
expected by everybody. I was desirous of preserving the peace. I could not
put myself at the head of the Mormon force with any kind of propriety, and
without exciting greater odium against them than already existed. I could
not put myself at the head of the anti-Mormon party, because they had
justly forfeited my confidence, and my command over them was put an end to
by mutiny and treachery. I could not put myself at the head of either of
these forces, because both of them in turn had violated the law, and, as I
then believed, meditated further aggression. It appeared to me that if a
war ensued, I ought to have a force in which I could confide, and that I
ought to establish my headquarters at a place where I could learn the
truth as to what was going on.
For these reasons I determined to proceed to Quincy, a place
favorably situated for receiving the earliest intelligence, for issuing
orders to raise an army if necessary, and for providing supplies for its
subsistence. But first, I determined to return back to Carthage and make
such arrangements as could be made for the pacification and defense of the
country.
When I arrived there, about ten o'clock at night, I found that great
consternation prevailed. Many of the citizens had departed with their
families, and others were preparing to go. As the country was utterly
defenseless, this seemed to me to be a proper precaution. One company of
the guard stationed by me to guard the jail had disbanded and gone home
before the jail was attacked, and many of the Carthage Greys departed soon
afterwards.
General Deming, who was absent in the country during the murder, had
returned. He volunteered to remain in command of a few men, with orders to
guard the town, observe the progress of events, and to retreat if menaced
by a superior force.
Here, also, I found Dr. Richards and John Taylor, two of the
principal Mormon leaders, who had been in the jail at the time of the
attack, and who voluntarily addressed a most pacific exhortation to their
fellow citizens, which was the first intelligence of the murder which was
received at Nauvoo. I think it very probable that the subsequent good
conduct of the Mormons is attributable to the arrest of the messengers,
and to the influence of this letter.
Having made these arrangements, I departed for Quincy. On my road
thither, I heard of a body of militia marching from Schuyler, and another
from Brown [counties]. It appears that orders had been sent out in my
name, but without my knowledge, for the militia of Schuyler county. I
immediately countermanded their march, and they returned to their homes.
When I arrived at Columbus, I found that Captain Jonas had raised a
company of one hundred men, who were just ready to march. By my advice
they postponed their march to await further orders.
I arrived at Quincy on the morning of the 29th of June, about eight
o'clock, and immediately issued orders, provisionally, for raising an
imposing force, when it should seem to be necessary.
I remained at Quincy for about one month, during which time a
committee from Warsaw waited on me, with a written request that I would
expel the Mormons from the state. It seemed that it never occurred to
these gentlemen that I had no power to exile a citizen, but they insisted
that if this were not done, their party would abandon the state. This
requisition was refused, of course.
During this time also, with the view of saving expense, keeping the
peace, and having a force which would be removed from the prejudices in
the country, I made application to the United States for five hundred men
of the regular army, to be stationed for a time in Hancock county, which
was subsequently refused.
During this time also, I had secret agents amongst all parties,
observing their movements, and was accurately informed of everything that
was meditated on both sides. It appeared that the anti-Mormon party had
not relinquished their hostility to the Mormons, nor their determination
to expel them, but had deferred further operations until the fall season,
after they had finished their summer's work on their farms.
When I first went to Carthage, and during all this difficult
business, no public officer ever acted from purer or more patriotic
intentions than I did. I was perfectly conscious of the utmost integrity
in all my actions, and felt lifted up far above all mere party
considerations. But I had scarcely arrived at the scene of action before
the Whig press commenced the most violent abuse, and attributed to me the
basest motives.
It was alleged in the Sangamon Journal, and repeated in the other
whig newspapers, that the governor had merely gone over to cement an
alliance with the Mormons; that the leaders would not be brought to
punishment, but that a full privilege would be accorded to them to commit
crimes of every hue and grade, in return for their support of the
democratic party. I mention this not by way of complaint, for it is only
the privilege of the minority to complain, but for its influence upon the
people.
I observed that I was narrowly watched in all my proceedings by my
whig fellow citizens, and was suspected of an intention to favor the
Mormons.
I felt that I did not possess the confidence of the men I commanded,
and that they had been induced to withhold it by the promulgation of the
most abominable falsehoods.
I felt the necessity of possessing their confidence, in order to give
vigor to my action, and exerted myself in every way to obtain it, so that
I could control the excited multitude who were under my command. I
succeeded better for a time than could have been expected; but who can
control the action of a mob without possessing their entire confidence?
It is true, also, that some unprincipled democrats all the time
appeared to be very busy on the side of the Mormons, and this circumstance
was well calculated to increase suspicion of every one who had the name of
democrat.
It was many days after the assassination of the Smiths before the
circumstances of the murder fully became known. It then appeared that,
agreeably to previous orders, the posse at Warsaw had marched on the
morning of the 27th of June in the direction of Golden's Point, with a
view to join the force from Carthage, the whole body then to be marched
into Nauvoo.
But by the time they had gone eight miles, they were met by the order
to disband; and learning at the same time that the governor was absent at
Nauvoo, about two hundred of these men, many of them being disguised by
blacking their faces with powder and mud, hastened immediately to
Carthage.
There they encamped, at some distance from the village, and soon
learned that one of the companies left as a guard had disbanded and
returned to their homes. The other company, the Carthage Greys, was
stationed by the captain in the public square, a hundred and fifty yards
from the jail, whilst eight men were detailed by him, under the command of
Sergeant Franklin A. Worrell, to guard the prisoners.
A Communication was soon established between the conspirators and the
company, and it was arranged that the guard should have their guns charged
with blank cartridges, and fire at the assailants when they attempted to
enter the jail.
General Deming, who was left in command, being deserted by some of
his troops, and perceiving the arrangement with the others, and having no
force upon Which he could rely, for fear of his life retired from the
village,
The conspirators came up, jumped the slight fence around the jail,
were fired upon by the guard, which, according to arrangement, was
overpowered immediately, and the assailants entered the prison, to the
door of the room where the two prisoners were confined, With two of their
friends, who voluntarily bore them company.
An attempt was made to break open the door, but Joe Smith being armed
with a six-barrelled pistol, furnished by his friends, fired several times
as the door was bursted open, and wounded three of the assailants. At the
same time several shots were fired into the room, by some of which John
Taylor received four wounds, and Hyrum Smith was instantly killed.
Joe Smith now attempted to escape by jumping out of the second story
window, but the fall so stunned him that he was unable to rise; and being
placed in a sitting posture by the conspirators below, they dispatched him
with four balls shot through his body.
Thus fell Joe Smith, the most successful impostor in modern times.'"
* * * * *
II EXTENSION OF QUOTATIONS FROM FORD'S HISTORY OF ILLINOIS
Explanation. THE former Historians of the Church, George A. Smith and
Wilford Woodruff (see Millennial Star, Vol. xxiv, p. 584, 1862) end their
quotation from Ford's History of Illinois at p. 354, and in the middle of
an unfinished sentence. There are other matters however in the book that
should be preserved to history, which deal with subsequent events of
Mormon affairs in Hancock county, and as it is not likely that Ford's
History of Illinois will ever be published again, and inasmuch also as his
treatise upon Mormon affairs is the most important part of the book, we
shall do a service both to the History of the Church and to the History of
Illinois by publishing further excerpts, These quotations will make up
chapters iv and v.
CHAPTER IV.
GOVERNOR FORD'S COMMENTS ON THE CHARACTER OF JOSEPH SMITH
AND HIS FOLLOWERS---HIS CONJECTURES ON THE FUTURE OF MORMONISM
IT is necessary to repeat the part of the sentence with which the
last chapter closed:
"Thus fell Joe Smith, the most successful impostor in modern times; a
man who though ignorant and coarse, had some great natural parts, which
fitted him for temporary success, but which were so obscured and
counteracted by the inherent corruption and vices of his nature that he
never could succeed in establishing a system of policy which looked to
permanent success in the future. His lusts, his love of money and power,
always set him to studying present gratification and convenience, rather
than the remote consequences of his plans. It seems that no power of
intellect can save a corrupt man from this error. The strong cravings of
the animal nature will never give fair play to a fine understanding, the
judgment is never allowed to choose that good which is far away, in
preference to enticing evil near at hand. And this may be considered a
wise ordinance of Providence, by which the counsels of talented but
corrupt men, are defeated in the very act which promised success.
It must not be supposed that the pretended Prophet practiced the
tricks of a common impostor; that he was a dark and gloomy person, with a
long beard, a grave and severe aspect, and a reserved and saintly carriage
of his person; on the contrary, he was full of levity, even to boyish
romping; dressed like a dandy, and at times drank like a sailor and swore
like a pirate. He could, as occasion required, be exceedingly meek in his
deportment; and then again rough and boisterous as a highway robber; being
always able to satisfy his followers of the propriety of his conduct. He
always quailed before power, and was arrogant to weakness. At times he
could put on the air of a penitent, as if feeling the deepest humiliation
for his sins, and suffering unutterable anguish, and indulging in the most
gloomy forebodings of eternal woe. At such times he would call for the
prayers of the brethren in his behalf, with a wild and fearful energy and
earnestness. He was full six feet high, strongly built, and uncommonly
well muscled. No doubt he was as much indebted for his influence over an
ignorant people, to the superiority of his physical vigor, as to his
greater cunning and intellect.
His followers were divided into the leaders and the led; the first
division embraced a numerous class of broken-down, unprincipled men of
talents, to be found in every country, who, bankrupt in character and
fortune, had nothing to lose by deserting the known religions, and carving
out a new one of their won. They were mostly infidels, who holding all
religions in derision, believed that they had as good a right as Christ or
Mahomet, or any of the founders of former systems, to create one for
themselves: and if they could impose it upon mankind, to live upon the
labor of their dupes. Those of the second division, were the credulous
wondering Part of men, whose easy belief and admiring natures, are always
the victims of novelty, in whatever shape it may come, who have a capacity
to believe any strange and wonderful matter, if it only be new, whilst the
wonders of former ages command neither faith nor reverence; they were men
of feeble purposes, readily subjected to the will of the strong, giving
themselves up entirely to the direction of their leaders: and this
accounts for the very great influence of those leaders in controlling
them. In other respects some of the Mormons were abandoned rogues, who had
taken shelter in Nauvoo, as a convenient place for the headquarters of
their villainy; and others were good, honest, industrious people, who were
the sincere victims of an artful delusion. Such as these were more the
proper objects of pity than persecution. With them, their religious belief
was a kind of insanity; and certainly no greater Calamity can befall a
human being, than to have a mind so constituted as to be made the sincere
dupe of a religious impostor. * * *
* * * The world now indulged in various conjectures as to the further
progress of the Mormon religion. By some persons it was believed that it
would perish and die away with its founder. But upon the principle that
`the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church', there was now really
more cause than ever to predict its success. The murder of the Smiths,
instead of putting an end to the delusion of the Mormons and dispersing
them, as many believed it would, only bound them together closer than
ever, gave them new confidence in their faith and an increased fanaticism.
The Mormon Church had been organized with a First Presidency,
composed of Joe and Hyrum Smith and Sidney Rigdon, and Twelve Apostles of
Jesus
Christ. The Twelve Apostles were now absent, and until they could be
called together the minds of the saints' were unsettled, as to the future
government of the church. Revelations were published that the prophet, in
imitation of the Savior, was to rise again from the dead. Many were
looking In gaping wonderment for the fulfillment of this revelation, and
some reported that they had already seen him, attended by a celestial army
coursing the air on a great white horse. Rigdon, as the only remaining
member of the First Presidency, claimed the government of the church, as
being successor to the Prophet. When the Twelve Apostles returned from
foreign parts, a fierce struggle for power ensued between them and Rigdon.
Rigdon fortified his pretensions by alleging the will of the Prophet in
his favor, and pretending to have several new revelations from heaven,
amongst which was one of a very impolitic nature. This was to the effect,
that all the wealthy Mormons were to break up their residence at Nauvoo,
and follow him to Pittsburgh. This revelation put both the rich and the
poor against him, The rich, because they did not want to leave their
property; and the poor, because they would not be deserted by the wealthy.
This was fatal to the ambition of Rigdon; and the Mormons, tired of the
despotism of a one-man government, were now willing to decide in favor of
the Apostles. Rigdon was expelled from the church as being a false
prophet, and left the field with a few followers, to establish a little
delusion of his own, near Pittsburgh; leaving the government of the main
church in the hands of the Apostles, with Brigham Young, a cunning but
vulgar man, at their head, occupying the place of Peter in the Christian
hierarchy.
Missionaries were dispatched to all parts to preach in the name of
the `martyred Joseph': and the Mormon religion thrived more than ever. For
a while it was doubtful whether the reign of the military saints in Nauvoo
would not in course of time supplant the meek and lowly system of Christ.
There were many things to favor their success, The different Christian
sects had lost much of the fiery energy by which at first they were
animated. They had attained to a more subdued, sober, learned, and
intellectual religion. But there is at all times a large class of mankind
who will never be satisfied with anything in devotion, short of a heated
and wild fanaticism. The Mormons were the greatest zealots, the most
confident in their faith, and filled with a wilder. fiercer, and more
enterprising enthusiasm, than any sect on the continent of America: their
religion gave promise of more temporal and spiritual advantages for less
labor, and with less personal sacrifice of passion, lust, prejudice,
malice, hatred, and ill will, than any other perhaps in the whole world.
Their missionaries abroad, to the number of two or three thousand, were
most earnest and indefatigable in their efforts to make converts:
compassing sea and land to make one proselyte. When abroad, they first
preached doctrines somewhat like those of the Campbellites; Sidney Rigdon,
the inventor of the system, having once been a Campbellite preacher: and
when they had made a favorable impression, they began in far-off allusions
to open up their mysteries, and to reveal to their disciples that a
perfect `fullness of the gospel' must be expected. This `fullness of the
gospel' was looked for by the dreamy and wondering disciple, as an
indefinite something not yet to be comprehended, but which was essential
to complete happiness and salvation. He was then told that God required
him to remove to the place of gathering, where alone this sublime
`fullness of the gospel' could be fully revealed, and completely enjoyed.
When he arrived at the place of gathering.
he was fortified in the new faith by being withdrawn from all other
influences; and by seeing and hearing nothing but Mormons and Mormonism;
and by association with those only who never doubted any of the Mormon
dogmas. Now the `fullness of the gospel' could be safely made known. If it
required him to submit to the most intolerable despotism; if it tolerated
and encouraged the lusts of the flesh and a plurality of wives; if it
claimed all the world for the saints; universal dominion for the Mormon
leaders; if it sanctioned murder, robbery, perjury, and larceny, at the
command of their priests, no one could now doubt but that this was the
`fullness of the gospel', the liberty of the saints, with which Christ had
made them free,
The Christian world, which has hitherto regarded Mormonism with
silent contempt, unhappily may yet have cause to fear its rapid increase.
Modern society is full of material for such a religion. At the death of
the Prophet, fourteen years after the first Mormon Church was organized,
the Mormons in all the world numbered about two hundred thousand souls
(one-half million according to their statistics); a number equal, perhaps,
to the number of Christians, when the Christian Church was of the same
age. It is to be feared that in course of a century, some gifted man like
Paul, some splendid orator, who will be able by his eloquence to attract
crowds of the thousands who are ever ready to hear, and be carried away by
the sounding brass and tinkling cymbal of sparkling oratory, may command a
hearing, may succeed in breathing a new life into this modern
Mahometanism, and make the name of the martyred Joseph ring as loud, and
stir the souls of men as much, as the mighty name of Christ itself.
Sharon, Palmyra, Manchester, Kirtland, Far West, Adamon Diahmon
(Adam-ondi-Ahman), Ramus. Nauvoo, and the Carthage jail, may become holy
and venerable names, places of classic interest, in another age; like
Jerusalem. the Garden of Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives, and Mount
Calvary to the Christian, and Mecca and Medina to the Turk. And in that
event, the author of this History feels degraded by the reflection, that
the humble governor of an obscure state, who would otherwise be forgotten
in a few Years, stands a fair chance, like Pilate and Herod, by their
official connection with the true religion, of being dragged down to
posterity with an immortal name, hitched on to the memory of a miserable
impostor. There may be those whose ambition would lead them to desire an
immortal name in history, even in those humbling terms. I am not one of
that number.
About one year after the Apostles were installed into power, they
abandoned for the present the project of converting the world to the new
religion. All the missionaries and members abroad were ordered home; it
was announced that the world had rejected the gospel by the murder of the
Prophet and Patriarch, and was to be left to perish in its sins. In the
meantime, both before and after this, the elders at Nauvoo quit preaching
about religion. The Mormons came from every part, pouring into the city;
the congregations were regularly called together for worship, but instead
of expounding the new gospel, the zealous and infuriated preachers now
indulged only in curses and strains of abuse of the Gentiles, and it
seemed to be their design to fill their followers with the greatest amount
of hatred to all mankind excepting the `saints'. A sermon was no more than
an inflammatory stump speech, relating to their quarrels with their
enemies, and ornamented with an abundance of profanity. From my own
personal knowledge of this people, I can say with truth, that I have never
known much of any of their leaders who was not addicted to profane
swearing. No other kind of discourses than these were heard in the city.
Curses upon their enemies, upon the country, upon government, upon all
public officer, were now the lessons taught by the elders, to inflame
their people with the highest degree of spite and malice against all who
were not of the Mormon Church, or its obsequious tools. The reader can
readily imagine how a city of fifteen thousand inhabitants could be
wrought up and kept in a continual rage by the inflammatory harangues of
its leaders.
In the meantime, the anti-Mormons were not idle; they were more than
ever determined to expel the Mormons; and being passionately inflamed
against them, they made many applications for executive assistance. On the
other hand, the Mormons invoked the assistance of government to take
vengeance upon the murderers of the Smiths. The anti-Mormons asked the
governor to violate the Constitution, which he was sworn to support, by
erecting himself into a military despot and exiling the Mormons. The
Mormons, on their part. in their newspapers, invited the governor to
assume absolute power, by taking a summary vengeance upon their enemies,
by shooting fifty or a hundred of them, without judge or jury. Both
parties were thoroughly disgusted with constitutional provisions
restraining them from the summary attainment of their wishes for
vengeance; each was ready to submit to arbitrary power, to the fiat of a
dictator, to make me a king for the time being, or at least that I might
exercise the power of a king, to abolish both the forms and spirit of free
government, if the despotism to be erected upon its ruins could only be
wielded for its benefit, and to take vengeance on its enemies. It seems
that, notwithstanding all our strong professions of attachment to liberty,
there is all the time an unconquerable leaning to the principles of
monarch and despotism, whenever the forms, the delays, and the restraints
of republican government fail to correct great evils. When the forms of
government in the United States were first invented, the public liberty
Was thought to be the great object of governmental protection. Our
ancestors studied to prevent government from doing harm, by depriving it
of power. They would not trust the power of exiling a citizen upon any
terms; or of taking his life, without a fair and impartial trial in the
courts, even to the people themselves, much less to their government. But
so infatuated were these parties, so deep did they feel their grievances,
that both of them were enraged in their turn, because the governor firmly
adhered to his oath of office; refusing to be a party to their
revolutionary proceedings; to set aside the government of the country, and
execute summary vengeance upon one or the other of them."
CHAPTER V.
POLITICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE PERIOD FOLLOWING THE DEATH
OF THE PROPHET----"TRIAL" OF THE MURDERERS ---STATUS OF CIVIL
GOVERNMENT IN HANCOCK COUNTY
ANOTHER election was to come off in August, 1844, for members of
congress, and for the legislature; and an election was pending throughout
the nation for a president of the United States. The war of party was
never more fierce and terrible than during the pendency of these
elections. The parties in many places met separately almost every night;
not to argue the questions in dispute, but to denounce, ridicule abuse,
and belittle each other, with sarcasm, clamor, noise, and songs, during
which nothing could be heard but hallooing, hurrahing, and yelling, and
then to disperse through town, with insulting taunts and yells of defiance
on either side.
In all this they were but little less fanatical and frantic on the
subject of politics, than were the Mormons about religion. Such a state of
excitement could not fail to operate unfavorably upon the Mormon question,
involved as it was in the questions of party politics, by the former votes
of the Mormons. As a means of allaying excitement, and making the question
more manageable, I was most anxious that the Mormons should not vote at
this election, and strongly advised them against doing so. But Colonel E.
D. Taylor went to their city a few days before the election, and the
Mormons, being ever disposed to follow the worst advice they could get,
were induced by him and others to vote for all the democratic candidates.
Colonel Taylor found them very hostile to the governor, and on that
account much disposed not to vote at this election. The leading whig
anti-Mormons, believing that I had an influence over the Mormons, for the
purpose of destroying it had assured them that the governor had planned
and been favorable to the murder of their Prophet and Patriarch. The
Mormons pretended to suspect that the governor had given some countenance
to the murder, or at least had neglected to take the proper precautions to
prevent it. And yet it is strange that at this same election, they elected
General Deming to be the sheriff of the county, when they knew that he had
first called out the militia against them, had concurred with me in all
the measures subsequently adopted, had been left in command at Carthage
during my absence at Nauvoo, and had left his post when he saw that he had
no power to prevent the murders. As to myself, I shared the fate of all
men in high places, who favor moderation, who see that both parties in the
frenzy of their excitement are wrong espousing the cause of neither; which
fate always is to be hated by both parties. But Colonel Taylor, like a
skillful politician, denied nothing, but gave countenance to everything
the Mormons said of the governor; and by admitting to them that the
governor was a great rascal; by promising them the support of the
democratic party, an assurance he was not authorized to make, but which
they were foolish enough to believe, and by insisting that the governor
was not the democratic party, he overcame their reluctance to vote.
Nevertheless, for mere political effect, without a shadow of justice, the
whig leaders and newspapers everywhere, and some enemies in the democratic
ranks, immediately charged this vote of the Mormons to the governor's
influence; and this charge being believed by many, made the anti-Mormon
party more famous than ever in favor of the expulsion of the Mormons.
In the course of the fall of 1844, the anti-Mormon leaders sent
printed invitations to all the militia captains in Hancock, and to the
captains of militia in all the neighboring counties in Illinois, Iowa, and
Missouri, to be present with their companies at a great wolf hunt in
Hancock; and it was privately announced that the wolves to be hunted were
the Mormons and Jack-Mormons. Preparations were made for assembling
several thousand men, with provisions for six days; and the anti-Mormon
newspapers, in aid of the movement, commenced anew the most awful accounts
of thefts and robberies, and meditated outrages by the Mormons. The whig
press in every part of the United States, came to their assistance. The
democratic newspapers and leading democrats, who had received the benefit
of the Mormon votes to their party, quailed under the tempest, leaving no
organ for the correction of public opinion, either at home or abroad,
except the discredited Mormon newspaper at Nauvoo. But very few of my
prominent democratic friends would dare to come up to the assistance of
their governor, and but few of them dared openly to vindicate his motives
in endeavoring to keep the peace. They were willing and anxious for Mormon
votes at elections, but they were unwilling to risk their popularity with
the people, by taking a part in their favor, even when law and justice,
and the Constitution, were all on their side. Such being the odious
character of the Mormons, the hatred of the common people against them,
and such being the pusillanimity of leading men, in fearing to encounter
it.
In this state of the case I applied to Brigadier-General J. J.
Hardin, of the state militia, and to Colonels Baker and Merriman, all
whigs, but all of them men of military ambition, and they, together with
Colonel William Weatherford, a democrat with my own exertions, succeeded
in raising about five hundred volunteers; and thus did these whigs, that
which my own political friends, with two or three exceptions, were slow to
do, from a sense of duty and gratitude.
With this little force under the command of General Hardin, I arrived
in Hancock county on the 25th of September. The malcontents abandoned
their design, and all the leaders of it fled to Missouri. The Carthage
Greys fled almost in a body carrying their arms along with them. During
our stay in the county the anti-Mormons thronged into the camp, and
conversed freely with the men, who were fast infected with their
prejudices, and it was impossible to get any of the officers to aid in
expelling them. Colonels Baker, Merriman and Weatherford, volunteered
their services if I would go with them, to cross with a force into
Missouri, to capture three of the anti-Mormon leaders, for whose arrest
writs had been issued for the murder of the Smiths. To this I assented,
and procured a boat, which was sent down in the night. and secretly landed
a mile above Warsaw. Our little force arrived at that place about noon;
that night were to cross to Missouri at Churchville, and seize the accused
there encamped with a number of their friends; but that afternoon Colonel
Baker visited the hostile encampment, and on his return refused to
participate in the expedition, and advised all his friends against joining
it. There was no authority for compelling the men to invade a neighboring
state, and for this cause, much to the vexation of myself and several
others, the matter fell through.
It seems that Colonel Baker had already partly arranged the terms for
the accused to surrender. They were to be taken to Quincy for examination
under a military guard; the attorney for the people was to be advised to
admit them to bail, and they were to be entitled to a continuance of their
trial at the next court at Carthage; upon this, two of the accused came
over and surrendered themselves prisoners.
But at that time I was held responsible for this compromise with the
murderers. The truth is, that I had but little of the moral power to
command in this expedition. Officers, men, and all under me, were so
infected with the anti-Mormon prejudices that I was made to feel severely
the want of moral power to control them. It would be thought very strange
in any other government that the administration should have the power to
direct, but no power to control. By the Constitution the governor can
neither appoint nor remove a militia officer. He may arrest and order a
court martial. But a court martial composed of military officers, elected
in times of peace, in many cases upon the same principles upon which
Colonel Pluck was elected in New York City, is not likely to pay much
attention to executive wishes in opposition to popular excitement. So,
too, in Illinois, the governor has no power to appoint, remove, or in
anywise control sheriffs, justices of the peace, nor even a constable; and
yet the active cooperation of such officers with the executive, is
indispensable to the success of any effort the governor may take to
suppress civil war. If anyone supposes that the greatest amount of talents
will enable anyone to govern under such circumstances, he is mistaken. It
may be thought that the governor ought to create a public sentiment in
favor of his measures, to sway the minds of those under him to his own
course, but if anyone supposes that even the greatest abilities could
succeed in such an effort against popular feeling, and against the
inherent love of numerous demagogues for popularity, he is again mistaken.
GOVERNOR FORD'S PLEDGE OF SAFETY TO THE PROPHET ADMITTED I had
determined from the first that some of the ringleaders in the foul murder
of the Smiths should be brought to trial. If these men had been the
incarnation of satan himself, as was believed by many, their murder was a
foul and treacherous action, alike disgraceful to those who perpetrated
the crime, to the state, and to the governor, whose word had been pledged
for the protection of the prisoners in jail, and which had been so
shamefully violated; and required that the most vigorous means should be
used to bring the assassins to punishment. As much as anything else the
expedition under General Hardin had been ordered with a view to arrest the
murderers.
Accordingly, I employed able lawyers to hunt up the testimony,
procure indictments, and prosecute the offenders. A trial was had before
Judge Young in the summer of 1845. The sheriff and panel of jurors,
selected by the Mormon court, were set aside for prejudice, and elisors
were appointed to select a new jury. One friend of the Mormons and one
anti-Mormon were appointed for this purpose; but as more than a thousand
men had assembled under arms at the court, to keep away the Mormons and
their friends, the jury was made up of these military followers of the
court, who all swore that they had never formed or expressed any opinion
as to the guilt or innocence of the accused. The Mormons had one principal
witness, who was with the troops at Warsaw, had marched with them until
they were disbanded, heard their consultations, went before them to
Carthage, and saw them murder the Smiths. But before the trial came on,
they had induced him to become a Mormon, and being much more anxious for
the glorification of the Prophet than to avenge his death, the leading
Mormons made him publish a pamphlet giving an account of the murder; in
which he professed to have seen a bright and shining light descend upon
the head of Joe Smith, to strike some of the conspirators with blindness,
and that he heard supernatural voices in the air confirming his mission as
a Prophet! Having published this in a book, he was compelled to swear to
it in court, which of course destroyed the credit of his evidence. This
Witness was afterwards expelled from the Mormons, but no doubt they will
cling to his evidence in favor of the divine mission of the Prophet.
THE--"TRIAL"! THE STATE OF THE COURT Many other witnesses were
examined, who knew the facts, but under the influence of the
demoralization of faction, denied all knowledge of them. It has been said,
that faction may find men honest, but it scarcely ever leaves them so.
This was verified to the letter in the history of the Mormon quarrel. The
accused were all acquitted.
During the progress of these trials, the judge was compelled to
permit the courthouse to be filled and surrounded by armed bands, who
attended court to browbeat and overawe the administration of justice. `The
judge himself was in a duress, and informed me that he did not consider
his life secure any part of the time. The consequence was, that the crowd
had everything their own way; the lawyers for the defense defended their
clients by a long and elaborate attack on the governor; the armed mob
stamped with their feet and yelled their approbation at every sarcastic
and smart thing that was said; and the judge was not only forced to hear
it, but to lend it a kind of approval. Josiah Lamborn was attorney for the
prosecution: and O. H. Browning, O. C. Skinner, Calvin A. Warren, and
William A. Richardson, were for the defense.
At the next term, the leading Mormons were tried and acquitted for
the destruction of the heretical press. It appears that, not being
interested in objecting to the sheriff or the jury selected by a court
elected by themselves, they in their turn got a favorable jury determine
upon acquittal, and yet the Mormon jurors all swore that they had formed
no opinion as to the guilt or innocence of their accused friends. It
appeared that the laws furnished the means of suiting each party with a
jury. The Mormons could have a Mormon jury to be tried by, selected by
themselves; and the anti-Mormons, by objecting to the sheriff and regular
panel, could have one from the anti-Mormons. From henceforth no leading
man on either side could be arrested without the aid of an army, as the
men of one party could not safely surrender to the other for fear of being
murdered; when arrested by a military force the Constitution prohibited a
trial in any other county Without the consent of the accused. No one would
be Convicted of any crime in Hancock; and this put an end to the
administration of the criminal law in that distracted county. Government
was at an end there, and the whole community were delivered up to the
dominion of a frightful anarchy. If the whole state had been in the same
condition, then indeed would have been verified to the letter what was
said by a wit, when he expressed an opinion that the people were neither
capable of governing themselves nor of being governed by others. And truly
there can be no government in a free country where the people do not
voluntarily obey the laws."
III MEMOIRS OF THE LATE PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR RESPECTING AFFAIRS AT
NAUVOO LEADING UP TO THE MARTYRDOM OF THE PROPHET AND PATRIARCH: GOVERNOR
FORD'S RESPONSIBILITY THEREIN
Explanation FOLLOWING the preceding excerpts from Ford's History of
Illinois, setting forth his views of Latter-day Saint affairs in the state
of Illinois during his incumbency of the office of governor of that state,
and also what really amounts to a defense of himself in relation to those
events, I deem it important that a Latter-day Saint statement covering the
same period of time and events, with comments thereon, should be made.
Such a statement and comments I find in an historical document written by
John Taylor, late President [the third] of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, a close participant in these events; and second only in
nearness to the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum in them; and
who also was nearly made a complete martyr to the cause in which they
suffered, being savagely wounded in Carthage Prison, and only narrowly
escaping the death visited upon them. This statement and the comments upon
this eventful period were made at a time far enough removed from the
excitement of those days to enable the writer to speak temperately upon
the events of that period, and at the same time in a judicial and
statesmanlike spirit, that greatly enhances the value of the document.
As seen by the introductory paragraph, the paper was prepared at the
request of George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff, Church Historians, under
the title of "The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith"; and was filed in the
Historian's Office, Salt Lake City.
This document will make up chapters vi to x inclusive.
CHAPTER VI.
THE MARTYRDOM OF JOSEPH SMITH; REVIEW OF CONDITIONS IN ILLINOIS
PRECEDING THAT EVENT
"BEING requested by Elders George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff,
Church Historians, to write an account of events that transpired before,
and took place at, the time of the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, in Carthage
Jail, in Hancock county, state of Illinois, I Write the following,
principally from memory, not having access at this time to any public
documents relative thereto farther than a few desultory items contained in
Ford's History of Illinois. I must also acknowledge myself considerably
indebted to George A. Smith, who was with me when I wrote it, and who,
although not there at the time of the bloody transaction, yet, from
conversing with several persons who were in the capacity of Church
Historians, and aided by an excellent memory, has rendered me considerable
service.
These and the few items contained in the note at the end of this
account are all the aid I have had. I would farther add that the items
contained in the letter, in relation to dates especially, may be
considered strictly correct.
After having written the whole, I read it over to the Hon. J. M.
Bernhisel, who with one or two slight alterations, pronounced it strictly
correct. Brother Bernhisel was present most of the time. I am afraid that,
from the length of time that has transpired since the occurrence, and
having to rely almost exclusiVely upon my memory, there may be some slight
inaccuracies, but I believe that in general it is strictly correct. As I
figured in those transactions from the commencement to the end, they left
no slight impression on my mind.
In the year 1844, a very great excitement prevailed in some parts of
Hancock, Brown and other neighboring counties of Illinois, in relation to
the `Mormons', and a spirit of vindictive hatred and persecution was
exhibited among the people, which was manifested in the most bitter and
acrimonious language, as well as by acts of hostility and violence,
frequently threatening the destruction of the citizens of Nauvoo and
vicinity, and utter annihilation of the `Mormons' and `Mormonism', and in
some instances breaking out in the most violent acts of ruffianly
barbarity. Persons were kidnapped, whipped, persecuted, and falsely
accused of various crimes; their cattle and houses injured, destroyed, or
stolen; vexatious prosecutions were instituted to harass, and annoy. In
some remote neighborhoods they were expelled from their homes without
redress, and in others violence was threatened to their persons and
property, while in others every kind of insult and indignity were heaped
upon them, to induce them to abandon their homes, the county, or the
state.
These annoyances, prosecutions, and persecutions were instigated
through different agencies and by various classes of men, actuated by
different motives, but all uniting in the one object----prosecution,
persecution, and extermination of the saints,
There were a number of wicked and corrupt men living in Nauvoo and
its vicinity, who had belonged to the church, but whose conduct was
incompatible with the gospel; they were accordingly dealt with by the
church and severed from its communion. Some of these had been prominent
members, and held official stations either in the city or church. Among
these were John C. Bennett, formerly mayor; William Law, counselor to
Joseph Smith; Wilson
Law, his natural brother, and general in the Nauvoo Legion; Dr. R. D.
Foster, a man of some property, but with a very bad reputation; Francis
and Chauncey Higbee, the latter a young lawyer, and both sons of a
respectable and honored man in the church, known as Judge Elias Higbee,
who died about twelve months before.
Besides these, there were a great many apostates, both in the city
and county, of less notoriety, who for their delinquencies, had been
expelled from the church. John C. Bennett and Francis and Chauncey Higbee
were cut off from the church; the former was also cashiered from his
generalship for the most flagrant acts of seduction and adultery; and the
developments in their cases were so scandalous that the high council,
before whom they were tried, had to sit with closed doors.
William Law, although counselor to Joseph, was found to be his most
bitter foe and malinger, and to hold intercourse [it was alleged] ,
contrary to all law, in his own house, with a young lady resident with
him; and it was afterwards proven that he had conspired with some
Missourians to take Joseph Smith's life, and (the Prophet) was only saved
by Josiah Arnold and Daniel Garn, who, being on guard at his house,
prevented the assassins from seeing him. Yet, although having murder in
his heart, his manners were generally courteous and mild, and he was well
calculated to deceive.
General Wilson Law was cut off from the church for seduction,
falsehood, and defamation; both the above were also court-martialed by the
Nauvoo Legion, and expelled. Foster was also cut off I believe, for
dishonesty, fraud, and falsehood. I know he was eminently guilty of the
whole, but whether these were the specific charges or not, I don't know,
but I do know that he was a notoriously wicked and corrupt man.
Besides the above characters and `Mormonic' apostates, there were
other three parties, The first of these may be called religionists, the
second politicians, and the third counterfeiters, blacklegs, horse
thieves, and cutthroats.
The religious party were chagrined and maddened because `Mormonism'
came in contact with their religion, and they could not oppose it from the
scriptures. Thus like the ancient Jews, when enraged at the exhibition of
their follies and hypocrisies by Jesus and his Apostles, so these were
infuriated against the `Mormons' because of their discomfiture by them;
and instead of owning the truth and rejoicing in it, they were ready to
gnash upon them with their teeth, and to persecute the believers in
principles which they could not disprove.
The political party were those who were of opposite politics to us.
There were always two parties, the whigs and democrats, and we could not
vote for one without offending the other, and it not unfrequently happened
that candidates for office would place the issue of their election upon
opposition to the `Mormons', in order to gain political influence from
religious prejudice, in which case the `Mormons' were compelled, in
self-defense, to vote against them, which resulted almost invariably
against our opponents. This made them angry; and although it was of their
own making, and the `Mormons' could not be expected to do otherwise, yet
they raged on account of their discomfiture, and sought to wreak their
fury on the `Mormons'. As an instance of the above, when Joseph Duncan was
candidate for the office of governor of Illinois, he pledged himself to
his party that, if he could be elected, he would exterminate or drive the
`Mormons' from the state. The consequence was that Governor Ford was
elected. The whigs, seeing that they had been out-generaled by the
democrats in securing the `Mormon' vote, became seriously alarmed, and
sought to repair their disaster by raising a crusade against the people.
The whig newspapers teemed with accounts of the wonders and enormities of
Nauvoo, and of the awful wickedness of a party which could consent to
receive the support of such miscreants, Governor Duncan, a brave, honest
man, and who had nothing to do with getting the `Mormon' charters passed
through the legislature, took the stump on this subject in good earnest,
and expected to be elected governor almost on this question alone.
The third party, composed of counterfeiters, blacklegs, horse
thieves, and cutthroats, were a pack of scoundrels that infested the whole
of the western country at that time. In some districts their influence was
so great as to control important state and county offices. On this subject
Governor Ford has the following:
`Then, again, the northern part of the state was not destitute of its
organized bands of rogues, engaged in murders, robberies, horse-stealing,
and in making and passing counterfeit money. These rogues were scattered
all over the north, but the most of them were located in the counties of
Ogle, Winnebago, Lee and De Kalb.
`In the county of Ogle they were so numerous, strong, and well
organized that they could not be convicted for their crimes. By getting
some of their numbers on the juries, by producing a host of witnesses to
sustain their defense, by perjured evidence, and by changing the venue of
one county to another, by continuances from term to term, and by the
inability of witnesses to attend from time to time at distant and foreign
counties, they most generally managed to be acquitted.'
There was a combination of horse thieves extending from Galena to
Alton. There were counterfeiters engaged in merchandizing, trading, and
storekeeping in most of the cities and villages, and in some districts, I
have been credibly informed by men to whom they have disclosed their
secrets; the judges, sheriffs, constables, and jailers, as well as
professional men, were more or less associated with them. These had in
their employ the most reckless, abandoned wretches, who stood ready to
carry into effect the most desperate enterprises, and were careless alike
of human life and property. Their object in persecuting the `Mormons' was
in part to cover their own rascality, and in part to prevent them from
exposing and prosecuting them; but the principal reason was plunder,
believing that if they [the `Mormons'] could be removed or driven, they
would be made fat on `Mormon' spoils, besides having in the deserted city
a good asylum for the prosecution of their diabolical pursuits.
This conglomeration of apostate `Mormons', religious bigots,
political fanatics and blacklegs, all united their forces against the
`Mormons', and organized themselves into a party, denominated
`anti-Mormons'. Some of them, we have reason to believe, joined the church
in order to cover their nefarious practices, and when they were expelled
for their unrighteousness only raged with greater violence. They
circulated every kind of falsehood that they could collect or manufacture
against the `Mormons'. They also had a paper to assist them in their
infamous designs, called the Warsaw Signal, edited by a Mr. Thomas Sharp,
a violent and unprincipled man, who shrunk not from any enormity. The
`anti-Mormons' had public meetings, which were very numerously attended,
where they passed resolutions of the most violent and inflammatory kind,
threatening to drive, expel and exterminate the `Mormons' from the state,
at the same time accusing them of every evil in the vocabulary of crime.
They appointed their meetings in various parts of Hancock, McDonough,
and other counties, which soon resulted in the organization of armed mobs,
under the direction of officers who reported to their headquarters, and
the reports of which were published in the `anti-Mormon' paper, and
circulated through the adjoining counties. We also published in the Times
and Seasons and the Nauvoo Neighbor (two papers published and edited by me
at that time) an account, not only of their proceedings, but our own. But
such was the hostile feeling, so well arranged their plans, and so
desperate and lawless their measures, that it was with the greatest
difficulty that we could get our papers circulated; they were destroyed by
postmasters and others, and scarcely ever arrived at the place of their
destination, so that a great many of the people, who would have been
otherwise peaceable, were excited by their misrepresentations, and
instigated to join their hostile or predatory bands.
Emboldened by the acts of those outside, the apostate `Mormons',
associated with others, commenced the publication of a libelous paper in
Nauvoo, called the Nauvoo Expositor.
This paper not only reprinted from the others, but put in circulation
the most libelous, false, and infamous reports concerning the citizens of
Nauvoo, and especially the ladies. It was, however, no sooner put in
circulation than the indignation of the whole community was aroused; so
much so, that they threatened its annihilation; and I do not believe that
in any other city in the United States, if the same charges had been made
against the citizens, it would have been permitted to remain one day. As
it was among us, under these circumstances, it was thought best to convene
the city council to take into consideration the adoption of some measures
for its removal, as it was deemed better that this should be done legally
than illegally. Joseph Smith, therefore, who was mayor, convened the city
council for that purpose; the paper was introduced and read, and the
subject examined. All, or nearly all present, expressed their indignation
at the course taken by the Expositor, which was owned by some of the
aforesaid apostates, associated with one or two others. Wilson Law, Dr.
Foster, Charles Ivins and the Higbees before referred to, some lawyers,
storekeepers, and others in Nauvoo who were not `Mormons', together with
the `anti-Mormons' outside of the city, sustained it. The calculation was,
by false statements, to unsettle the minds of many in the city, and to
form combinations there similar to the `anti-Mormon' associations outside
of the city. Various attempts had heretofore been made by the party to
annoy and irritate the citizens of Nauvoo; false accusations had been
made, vexatious lawsuits instituted, threats made, and various devices
resorted to, to influence the public mind, and, if possible, to provoke us
to the commission of some overt act that might make us amenable to the
law. With a perfect knowledge therefore, of the designs of these infernal
scoundrels who were in our midst, as well as those who surrounded us, the
city council entered upon an investigation of the matter. They felt that
they were in a critical position, and that any move made for the abating
of that press would be looked upon, or at least represented, as a direct
attack upon the liberty of speech, and that, so far from displeasing our
enemies, it would be looked upon by them as one of the best circumstances
that could transpire to assist them in their nefarious and bloody designs.
Being a member of the city council, I well remember the feeling of
responsibility that seemed to rest upon all present; nor shall I soon
forget the bold, manly, independent expressions of Joseph Smith on that
occasion in relation to this matter. He exhibited in glowing colors the
meanness, corruption and ultimate designs of the `anti-Mormons'; their
despicable characters and ungodly influences, especially of those who were
in our midst. He told of the responsibility that rested upon us, as
guardians of the public interest, to stand up in the defense of the
injured and oppressed, to stem the current of corruption, and as men and
saints, to put a stop to this flagrant outrage upon this people's rights.
He stated that no man was a stronger advocate for the liberty of
speech and of the press than himself; yet, when this noble gift is utterly
prostituted and abused, as in the present instance, it loses all claim to
our respect, and becomes as great an agent for evil as it can possibly be
for good; and notwithstanding the apparent advantage we should give our
enemies by this act, yet it behooved us, as men, to act independent of all
secondary influences, to perform the part of men of enlarged minds, and
boldly and fearlessly to discharge the duties devolving upon us by
declaring as a nuisance, and removing this filthy, libelous, and seditious
sheet from our midst.
The subject was discussed in various forms, and after the remarks
made by the mayor, every one seemed to be waiting for some one else to
speak.
After a considerable pause, I arose and expressed my feelings
frankly, as Joseph had done, and numbers of others followed in the same
strain; and I think, but am not certain, that I made a motion for the
removal of that press as a nuisance. This motion was finally put, and
carried by all but one; and he conceded that the measure was just, but
abstained through fear.
Several members of the city council were not in the church. The
following is the bill referred to:
BILL FOR REMOVAL OF THE PRESS OF THE NAUVOO EXPOSITOR `Resolved by
the city council of the city of Nauvoo, that the printing office from
whence issues the Nauvoo Expositor is a public nuisance; and also of said
Nauvoo Expositors which may be or exist in said establishment; and the
mayor is instructed to cause said establishment and papers to be removed
without delay, in such manner as he shall direct.
`Passed June 10th, 1844. GEO. W. HARRIS, President pro tem. `W.
RICHARDS, Recorder.'
After the passage of the bill, the marshal, John P. Greene was
ordered to abate or remove, which he forthwith proceeded to do by
summoning a posse of men for that purpose. The press was removed or
broken, I don't remember which, by the marshal, and the types scattered in
the street.
This seemed to be one of those extreme cases that require extreme
measures, as the press was still proceeding in its inflammatory course. It
was feared that, as it was almost universally execrated, should it
continue longer, an indignant people might commit some overt act which
might lead to serious consequences, and that it was better to use legal
than illegal means.
This, as was foreseen, was the very course our enemies wished us to
pursue, as it afforded them an opportunity of circulating a very plausible
story about the `Mormons' being opposed to the liberty of the press and of
free speech, which they were not slow to avail themselves of. Stories were
fabricated, and facts perverted; false statements were made, and this act
brought in as an example to sustain the whole of their fabrications; and,
as if inspired by satan, they labored with an energy and zeal worthy of a
better cause. They had runners to circulate their reports, not only
through Hancock county, but in all the surrounding counties. These reports
were communicated to their `anti-Mormon' societies, and these societies
circulated them in their several districts. The `anti-Mormon' paper, the
Warsaw Signal, was filled with inflammatory articles and
misrepresentations in relation to us, and especially to this act of
destroying the press. We were represented as a horde of lawless ruffians
and brigands, anti-American and anti-republican, steeped in crime and
iniquity, opposed to freedom of speech and of the press, and all the
rights and immunities of a free and enlightened people; that neither
person nor property was secure, that we had designs upon the citizens of
Illinois and of the United States, and the people were called upon to rise
en masse, and put us down, drive us away, or exterminate us as a pest to
society, and alike dangerous to our neighbors, the state, and the
commonwealth.
These statements were extensively copied and circulated throughout
the United States. A true statement of the facts in question was published
by us both in the Times and Seasons and the Nauvoo Neighbor; but it was
found impossible to circulate them in the immediate counties, as they were
destroyed at the post offices or otherwise by the agents of the
`anti-Mormons', and, in order to get the mail to go abroad, I had to send
the papers a distance of thirty or forty miles from Nauvoo, and sometimes
to St. Louis (upward of two hundred miles), to insure their proceeding on
their route, and then one-half or two-thirds of the papers never reached
the place of destination, being intercepted or destroyed by our enemies.
These false reports stirred up the community around, of whom many, on
account of religious prejudice, were easily instigated to join the
`anti-Mormons' and embark in any crusade that might be undertaken against
us; hence their ranks swelled in numbers, and new organizations were
formed, meetings were held, resolutions passed, and men and means
volunteered for the extirpation of the `Mormons'.
On these points Governor Ford writes:
`These also were the active men in blowing up the fury of the people,
in hopes that a popular movement might be set on foot, which would result
in the expulsion or extermination of the `Mormon' voters. For this purpose
public meetings had been called, inflammatory speeches had been made,
exaggerated reports had been extensively circulated, committees had been
appointed, who rode night and day to spread the reports and solicit the
aid of neighboring counties, and at a public meeting at Warsaw resolutions
were passed to expel or exterminate the `Mormon' population. This was not,
however, a movement which was unanimously concurred in. The county
contained a goodly number of inhabitants in favor of peace, or who at
least desired to be neutral in such a contest. These were stigmatized by
the name of `Jack-Mormons', and there were not a few of the more furious
exciters of the people who openly expressed their intention to involve
them in the common expulsion or extermination.
`A system of excitement and agitation was artfully planned and
executed with tact. It consisted in spreading reports and rumors of the
most fearful character. As examples: On the morning before my arrival at
Carthage, I was awakened at an early hour by the frightful report, which
was asserted with confidence and apparent consternation that the `Mormons'
had already commenced the work of burning, destruction, and murder, and
that every man capable of bearing arms was instantly wanted at Carthage
for the protection of the county.
`We lost no time in starting; but when we arrived at Carthage we
could hear no more concerning this story. Again, during the few days that
the militia were encamped at Carthage, frequent applications were made to
me to send a force here, and a force there, and a force all about the
country, to prevent murders, robberies, and larcenies which, it was said,
were threatened by the `Mormons'. No such forces were sent, nor were any
such offenses committed at that time, except the stealing of some
provisions, and there was never the least proof that this was done by a
`Mormon'. Again, on my late visit to Hancock county, I was informed by
some of their violent enemies that the larcenies of the `Mormons' had
become unusually numerous and insufferable.
`They admitted that but little had been done in this way in their
immediate vicinity, but they insisted that sixteen horses had been stolen
by the `Mormons' in one night near Lima, and, upon inquiry, was told that
no horses had been stolen in that neighborhood, but that sixteen horses
had been stolen in one night in Hancock county. This last informant being
told of the Hancock story, again changed the venue to another distant
settlement in the northern edge of Adams.'
In the meantime legal proceedings were instituted against the members
of the city council of Nauvoo. A writ, here subjoined, was issued upon the
affidavit of the Laws, Fosters, Higbees, and Ivins, by Mr. Morrison, a
justice of the peace in Carthage, and the county seat of Hancock, and put
into the hands of one David Bettisworth, a constable of the same place.
WRIT ISSUED UPON AFFIDAVIT BY THOMAS MORRISON, J. P., STATE OF
ILLINOIS, HANCOCK COUNTY, ss `The people of the state of Illinois, to all
constables, sheriffs, and coroners of the said state, greeting: `Whereas
complaint hath been made before me, one of the justices of the peace in
and for the county of Hancock aforesaid, upon the oath of Francis M.
Higbee, of the said county, that Joseph Smith Samuel Bennett, John Taylor,
William W. Phelps, Hyrum Smith, John P. Greene, Stephen Perry, Dimick B.
Huntington, Jonathan Dunham, Stephen Markham, William Edwards, Jonathan
Holmes, Jesse P. Harmon, John Lytle, Joseph W. Coolidge, Harvey D.
Redfield, Porter Rockwell, and Levi Richards of said county, did on the
10th day of June instant, commit a riot at and within the county
aforesaid, wherein they with force and violence broke into the printing
office of the Nauvoo Expositor, and unlawfully and with force burned and
destroyed the printing press, type and fixtures of the same, being the
property of William Law, Wilson Law, Charles Ivins, Francis M. Higbee,
Chauncey L. Higbee, Robert D. Foster, and Charles A. Foster.
`These are therefore to command you forthwith to apprehend the said
Joseph Smith, Samuel Bennett, John Taylor, William W. Phelps, Hyrum Smith,
John P. Greene, Stephen Perry, Dimick B. Huntington, Jonathan Dunham,
Stephen Markham, William Edwards, Jonathan Holmes, Jesse P. Harmon, John
Lytle, Joseph W. Coolidge, Harvey D. Redfield, Porter Rockwell, and Levi
Richards, and bring them before me, or some other justice of the peace, to
answer the premises, and farther to be dealt with according to law.
`Given under my hand and seal at Carthage, in the county aforesaid,
this 11th day of June, A. D., 1844. [Signed] THOMAS MORRISON, J. P.'
(Seal)
The council did not refuse to attend to the legal proceedings in the
case, but as the law of Illinois made it the privilege of the persons
accused to go' or appear before the issuer of the writ, or any other
justice of peace', they requested to be taken before another magistrate,
either in the city of Nauvoo or at any reasonable distance out of it.
This the constable, who was a mobocrat, refused to do, and as this
was our legal privilege, we refused to be dragged, contrary to law, a
distance of eighteen miles, when at the same time we had reason to believe
that an organized band of mobocrats were assembled for the purpose of
extermination or murder, and among whom it would not be safe to go without
a superior force of armed men. A writ of habeas corpus was called for,
issued by the municipal court of Nauvoo, taking us out of the hands of
Bettisworth, and placing us in the charge of the city marshal. We went
before the municipal court and were dismissed. Our refusal to obey this
illegal proceeding was by them construed into a refusal to submit to law,
and circulated as such, and the people either did believe, or professed to
believe, that we were in open rebellion against the laws and the
authorities of the state. Hence mobs began to assemble, among which all
through the country inflammatory speeches were made, exciting them to
mobocracy and violence. Soon they commenced their depredations in our
outside settlements, kidnaping some, and whipping and otherwise abusing
others.
The persons thus abused fled to Nauvoo as soon as practicable, and
related their injuries to Joseph Smith, then mayor of the city, and
lieutenant-general of the Nauvoo Legion. They also went before
magistrates, and made affidavits of what they had suffered, seen, and
heard. These affidavits, in connection with a copy of all our proceedings
were forwarded by Joseph Smith to Mr. Ford, then governor of Illinois,
with an expression of our desire to abide law, and a request that the
governor would instruct him how to proceed in the case of arrival of an
armed mob against the city. The governor sent back instructions to Joseph
Smith that, as he was lieutenant-general of the Nauvoo Legion, it was his
duty to protect the city and surrounding country, and issued orders to
that effect, Upon the reception of these orders Joseph Smith assembled the
people of the city, and laid before them the governor's instructions; he
also convened the officers of the Nauvoo Legion for the purpose of
conferring in relation to the best mode of defense. He also issued orders
to the men to hold themselves in readiness in case of being called upon.
On the following day General Joseph Smith, with his staff, the leading
officers of the Legion, and some prominent strangers who were in our
midst, made a survey of the outside boundaries of the city, which was very
extensive, being about five miles up and down the river, and about two and
a half back in the center, for the purpose of ascertaining the position of
the ground, and the feasibility of defense, and to make all necessary
arrangements in case of an attack.
It may be well here to remark that numbers of gentlemen, strangers to
us, either came on purpose or were passing through Nauvoo, and upon
learning the position of things, expressed their indignation against our
enemies, and avowed their readiness to assist us by their counsel or
otherwise. It was some of these who assisted us in reconnoitering the
city, and finding out its adaptability for defense, and how to protect it
best against an armed force. The Legion was called together and drilled,
and every means made use for defense. At the call of the officers, old and
young men came forward, both from the city and the country, and mustered
to the number of about five thousand.
In the meantime our enemies were not idle in mustering their forces
and committing depredations, nor had they been; it was, in fact, their
gathering that called ours into existence; their forces continued to
accumulate; they assumed a threatening attitude, and assembled in large
bodies, armed and equipped for war, and threatened the destruction and
extermination of the `Mormons'.
An account of their outrages and assemblages was forwarded to
Governor Ford almost daily; accompanied by affidavits furnished by
eyewitnesses of their proceedings. Persons were also sent out to the
counties around with pacific intentions, to give them an account of the
true state of affairs, and to notify them of the feelings and dispositions
of the people of Nauvoo, and thus, if possible, quell the excitement. In
some of the more distant counties these men were very successful, and
produced a salutary influence upon the minds of many intelligent and
well-disposed men. In neighboring counties, however, where `anti-Mormon'
influence prevailed, they produced little effect. At the same time guards
were stationed around Nauvoo, and picket guards in the distance. At length
opposing forces gathered so near that more active measures were taken;
reconnoitering parties were sent out, and the city proclaimed under
martial law. Things now assumed a belligerent attitude, and persons
passing through the city were questioned as to what they knew of the
enemy, while passes were in some instances given to avoid difficulty with
the guards. Joseph Smith continued to send on messengers to the governor
(Philip B. Lewis and other messengers were sent) . Samuel James, then
residing at La Harpe, carried a message and dispatches to him, and in a
day or two after Bishop Edward Hunter and others went again with fresh
dispatches, representations, affidavits, and instructions; but as the
weather was excessively wet, the rivers swollen, and the bridges washed
away in many places, it was with great difficulty that they proceeded on
their journeys. As the mobocracy had at last attracted the governor's
attention, he started in company with some others from Springfield to the
scene of trouble, and missed, I believe, both Brothers James and Hunter on
the road, and, of course, did not see their documents. He came to
Carthage, and made that place, which was a regular mobocratic den, his
headquarters; as it was the county seat, however, of Hancock county, that
circumstance might, in a measure, justify his staying there.
To avoid the appearance of all hostility on our part, and to fulfill
the law in every particular, at the suggestion of Judge Thomas, judge of
that judicial district, who had come to Nauvoo at the time, and who stated
that we had fulfilled the law, but, in order to satisfy all he would
counsel us to go before Esquire Wells, who was not in our church, and have
a hearing, we did so, and after a full hearing we were again dismissed.
The governor on the road collected forces, some of whom were
respectable, but on his arrival in the neighborhood of the difficulties he
received as militia all the companies of the mob forces who united with
him. After his arrival at Carthage he sent two gentlemen from there to
Nauvoo as a committee to wait upon General Joseph Smith, informing him of
the arrival of his excellency, with a request that General Smith would
send out a committee to wait upon the governor and represent to him the
state of affairs in relation to the difficulties that then existed in the
county. We met this committee while we were reconnoitering the city to
find out the best mode of defense as aforesaid. Dr. J. M. Bernhisel and
myself were appointed as a committee by General Smith to wait upon the
governor. Previous to going, however, we were furnished with affidavits
and documents in relation both to our proceedings and those of the mob; in
addition to the general history of the transaction, we took with us a
duplicate of those documents which had been forwarded by Bishop Hunter,
Brother James, and others. We started from Nauvoo in company with the
aforesaid gentlemen at about 7 o'clock on the evening of the 21st of June,
and arrived at Carthage about 11 p. m.
We put up at the same hotel with the governor, kept by a Mr.
Hamilton. On our arrival we found the governor in bed, but not so with the
other inhabitants. The town was filled with a perfect set of rabble and
rowdies, who, under the influence of bacchus, seemed to be holding a grand
saturnalia, whooping, yelling and vociferating as if bedlam had broken
loose.
On our arrival at the hotel, and while supper was preparing, a man
came to me, dressed as a soldier, and told me that a man named Daniel Garn
had just been taken prisoner, and was about to be committed to jail, and
wanted me to go bail for him. Believing this to be a ruse to get me out
alone, and that some violence was intended, after consulting with Dr.
Bernhisel, I told the man that I was well acquainted with Mr. Garn, that I
knew him to be a gentleman, and did not believe that he had transgressed
law, and, moreover, that I considered it a very singular time to be
holding courts and calling for security, particularly as the town was full
of rowdyism.
I informed him that Dr. Bernhisel and myself would, if necessary, go
bail for him in the morning, but that we did not feel ourselves safe among
such a set at that late hour of the night.
After supper, on retiring to our room, we had to pass through
another, which was separated from ours only by a board partition, the beds
in each room being placed side by side, with the exception of this fragile
partition. On the bed that was in the room which we passed through I
discovered a man by the name of Jackson, a desperate character, and a
reputed, notorious cutthroat and murderer. I hinted to the doctor that
things looked rather suspicious, and looked to see that my arms were in
order. The doctor and I occupied one bed. We had scarcely laid down when a
knock at the door, accompanied by a voice announced the approach of
Chauncey Higbee, the young lawyer and apostate before referred to.
He addressed himself to the doctor, and stated that the object of his
visit was to obtain the release of Daniel Garn; that Garn he believed to
be an honest man; that if he had done anything wrong, it was through
improper counsel, and that it was a pity that he should be incarcerated,
particularly when he could be so easily released; he urged the doctor, as
a friend, not to leave so good a man in such an unpleasant situation; he
finally prevailed upon the doctor to go and give bail, assuring him that
on his giving bail Garn would be immediately dismissed.
During this conversation I did not say a word.
Higbee left the doctor to dress, with the intention of returning and
taking him to the court. As soon as Higbee had left, I told the doctor
that he had better not go; that I believed this affair was all a ruse to
get us separated; that they knew we had documents with us from General
Smith to show to the governor; that I believed their object was to get
possession of those papers, and, perhaps, when they had separated us, to
murder one or both. The doctor, who was actuated by the best of motives in
yielding to the assumed solicitude of Higbee, coincided with my views; he
then went to Higbee and told him that he had concluded not to go that
night, but that he and I would both wait upon the justice and Mr. Garn in
the morning.
That night I lay awake with my pistols under my pillow, waiting for
any emergency. Nothing more occurred during the night. In the morning we
arose early, and after breakfast sought an interview with the governor,
and were told that we could have an audience, I think, at 10 o'clock. In
the meantime we called upon Mr. Smith, a justice of the peace, who had Mr.
Garn in charge. We represented that we had been called upon the night
before by two different parties to go bail for a Mr. Daniel Garn, whom we
were informed he had in custody, and that, believing Mr. Garn to be an
honest man, we had now come for that purpose, and were prepared to enter
into recognizance for his appearance, whereupon Mr. Smith, the magistrate,
remarked that, under the present excited state of affairs, he did not
think he would be justified in receiVing bail from Nauvoo, as it was a
matter of doubt whether property would not be rendered valueless there in
a few days.
Knowing the party we had to deal with, we were not much surprised at
this singular proceeding; we then remarked that both of us possessed
property in farms out of Nauvoo in the country, and referred him to the
county records. He then stated that such was the nature of the charge
against Mr. Garn that he believed he would not be justified in receiving
any bail. We were thus confirmed in our opinion that the night's
proceedings before, in relation to their desire to have us give bail, was
a mere ruse to separate us. We were not permitted to speak with Garn, the
real charge against whom was that he was traveling in Carthage or its
neighborhood; what the fictitious one was, if I knew, I have since
forgotten, as things of this kind were of daily occurrence."
CHAPTER VII.
JOHN TAYLOR AND DR. BERNHISEL'S INTERVIEW WITH GOVERNOR
FORD----PLEDGE OF GOVERNOR FORD FOR THE SECURITY OF JOSEPH SMITH IF
HE WOULD COME TO CARTHAGE
"AFTER waiting the governor's pleasure for some time we had an
audience; but such an audience!
He was surrounded by some of the vilest and most unprincipled men in
creation; some of them had an appearance of respectability, and many of
them lacked even that. Wilson, and, I believe, William Law, were there;
Foster, Frank and Chauncey Higbee, Mr. Mar, a lawyer from Nauvoo, a
mobocratic merchant from Warsaw, the aforesaid Jackson, a number of his
associates, among whom was the governor's secretary; in all, some fifteen
or twenty persons, most of whom were recreant to virtue, honor, integrity,
and everything that is considered honorable among men.
I can well remember the feelings of disgust that I had in seeing the
governor surrounded by such an infamous group, and on being introduced to
men of so questionable a character and had I been on private business, I
should have turned to depart, and told the governor that if he thought
proper to associate with such questionable characters, I should beg leave
to be excused; but coming as we did on public business, we could not, of
course, consult our private feelings.
We then stated to the governor that, in accordance with his request,
General Smith had, in response to his call, sent us to him as a committee
of conference; that we were acquainted with most of the circumstances that
had transpired in and about Nauvoo lately, and were prepared to give him
all information; that, moreover, we had in our possession testimony and
affidavits confirmatory of what we should say, which had been forwarded to
him by General Joseph Smith, that communications had been forwarded to his
excellency by Messrs. Hunter, James, and others, some of which had not
reached their destination, but of which we had duplicates with us. We
then, in brief, related an outline of the difficulties, and the course we
had pursued from the commencement of the troubles up to the present, and
handing him the documents, respectfully submitted the whole.
During our conversation and explanations with the governor we were
frequently rudely and impudently contradicted by the fellows he had around
him, and of whom he seemed to take no notice.
He opened and read a number of the documents himself, and as he
proceeded he was frequently interrupted by `That's a lie!' `That's a
G--------d--------ned lie!' `That's an infernal falsehood!' `That's a
blasted lie!' etc.
These men evidently winced at an exposure of their acts, and thus
vulgarly, impudently and falsely repudiated them. One of their number, Mr.
Mar, addressed himself several times to me while in conversation with the
governor. I did not notice him until after a frequent repetition of his
insolence, when I informed him that `my business at that time was with
Governor Ford', whereupon I continued my conversation with his excellency.
During the conversation, the governor expressed a desire that Joseph
Smith, and all parties concerned in passing or executing the city law in
relation to the press, had better come to Carthage; that, however
repugnant it might be to our feelings, he thought it would have a tendency
to allay public excitement, and prove to the people what we professed,
that we wished to be governed by law. We represented to him the course we
had taken in relation to this matter, and our willingness to go before
another magistrate other than the municipal court; the illegal refusal of
our request by the constable; our dismissal by the municipal court, a
legally constituted tribunal; our subsequent trial before Squire Wells at
the instance of Judge Thomas, the circuit judge, and our dismissal by him;
that we had fulfilled the law in every particular; that it was our enemies
who were breaking the law, and, having murderous designs, were only making
use of this as a pretext to get us into their power, The governor stated
that the people viewed it differently, and that, notwithstanding our
opinions, he would recommend that the people should be satisfied. We then
remarked to him that, should Joseph Smith comply with his request, it
would be extremely unsafe, in the present excited state of the country, to
come without an armed force; that we had a sufficiency of men, and were
competent to defend ourselves, but there might be danger of collision
should our forces and those of our enemies be brought into such close
proximity. He strenuously advised us not to bring our arms, and pledged
his faith as governor, and the faith of the state, that we should be
protected, and that he would guarantee our perfect safety.
We had at that time about five thousand men under arms, one thousand
of whom would have been amply sufficient for our protection.
At the termination of our interview, and previous to our withdrawal,
after a long conversation and the perusal of the documents which we had
brought, the governor informed us that he would prepare a written
communication for General Joseph Smith, which he desired us to wait for.
We were kept waiting for this instrument some five or six hours.
About five o'clock in the afternoon we took our departure with not
the most pleasant feelings. The associations of the governor, the spirit
he manifested to compromise with these scoundrels, the length of time that
he had kept us waiting, and his general deportment, together with the
infernal spirit that we saw exhibited by those whom he had admitted to his
counsels, made the prospect anything but promising.
We returned on horseback, and arrived at Nauvoo, I think, at about
eight or nine o'clock at night accompanied by Captain Yates in command of
a company of mounted men, who came for the purpose of escorting Joseph
Smith and the accused in case of their complying with the governor's
request, and going to Carthage. We went directly to Brother Joseph's when
Captain Yates delivered to him the governor's communication. A council was
called, consisting of Joseph's brother, Hyrum, Dr. Richards, Dr.
Bernhisel, myself, and one or two others.
We then gave a detail of our interview with the governor. Brother
Joseph was very much dissatisfied with the governor's letter and with his
general deportment, and so were the council, and it became a serious
question as to the course we should pursue. Various projects were
discussed, but nothing definitely decided upon for some time.
In the interim two gentlemen arrived; one of them, if not both, sons
of John C. Calhoun. They had come to Nauvoo, and were very anxious for an
interview with Brother Joseph.
These gentlemen detained him for some time; and as our council was
held in Dr. Bernhisel's room in the Mansion House, the doctor lay down;
and as it was now between 2 and 3 o'clock in the morning, and I had had no
rest on the previous night, I was fatigued, and thinking that Brother
Joseph might not return, I left for home and rest.
Being very much fatigued, I slept soundly, and was somewhat surprised
in the morning by Mrs. Thompson entering my room about 7 o clock and
exclaiming in surprise, What, you here! the brethren have crossed the
river some time since.'
`What brethren?' I asked.
`Brother Joseph, and Hyrum, and Brother Richards', she answered.
I immediately arose upon learning that they had crossed the river,
and did not intend to go to Carthage. I called together a number of
persons in whom I had confidence, and had the type, stereotype plates, and
most of the valuable things removed from the printing office, believing
that should the governor and his force come to Nauvoo, the first thing
they would do would be to burn the printing office, for I know that they
would be exasperated if Brother Joseph went away, We had talked over these
matters the night before, but nothing was decided upon. It was Brother
Joseph's opinion that, should we leave for a time, public excitement,
which was then so intense, would be allayed; that it would throw on the
governor the responsibility of keeping the peace; that in the event of an
outrage, the on us would rest upon the governor, who was amply prepared
with troops, and could command all the forces of the state to preserve
order; and that the act of his own men would be an overwhelming proof of
their seditious designs, not only to the governor, but to the world. He
moreover thought that, in the east, where he intended to go, public
opinion would be set right in relation to these matters, and its
expression would partially influence the west, and that, after the first
ebullition, things would assume a shape that would justify his return.
I made arrangements for crossing the river, and Brother Elias Smith
and Joseph Cain, who were both employed in the printing office with me,
assisted all that lay in their power together with Brother Brower and
several hands in the printing office. As we could not find out the exact
whereabouts of Joseph and the brethren, I crossed the river in a boat
furnished by Brother Cyrus H. Wheelock and Alfred Bell; and after the
removal of the things out of the printing office, Joseph Cain brought the
account books to me, that we might make arrangements for their adjustment;
and Brother Elias Smith, cousin to Brother Joseph, went to obtain
money for the journey, and also to find out and report to me the location
of the brethren.
As Cyrus Wheelock was an active, enterprising man, and in the event
of not finding Brother Joseph I calculated to go to Upper Canada for the
time being, and should need a companion, I said to Brother Cyrus H.
Wheelock, `Can you go with me ten or fifteen hundred miles?'
He answered, `Yes'.
`Can you start in half an hour?'
`Yes.'
However, I told him that he had better see his family, who lived over
the river, and prepare a couple of horses and the necessary equipage for
the journey, and that, if we did not find Brother Joseph before, we would
start at nightfall.
A laughable incident occurred on the eve of my departure. After
making all the preparations I could, previous to leaving Nauvoo, and
having bid adieu to my family, I went to a house adjoining the river,
owned by Brother Eddy. There I disguised myself so as not to be known, and
so effectually was the transformation that those who had come after me
with a boat did not know me. I went down to the boat and sat in it.
Brother Bell, thinking it was a stranger, watched my moves for some time
very impatiently, and then said to Brother Wheelock, `I wish that old
gentleman would go away; he has been pottering around the boat for some
time, and I am afraid Elder Taylor will be coming.' When he discovered his
mistake, he was not a little amused.
I was conducted by Brother Bell to a house that was surrounded by
timber on the opposite side of the river. There I spent several hours in a
chamber with Brother Joseph Cain, adjusting my accounts; and I made
arrangements for the stereotype plates of the Book of Mormon and
Doctrine and Covenants to be forwarded east, thinking to supply the
company with subsistence money through the sale of these books in the
east.
My horses were reported ready by Brother Wheelock, and funds on hand
by Brother Elias Smith. In about half an hour I should have started, when
Brother Elias Smith came to me with word that he had found the brethren;
that they had concluded to go to Carthage, and wished me to return to
Nauvoo and accompany them. I must confess that I felt a good deal
disappointed at this news, but I immediately made preparations to go.
Escorted by Brother Elias Smith, I and my party went to the neighborhood
of Montrose, where we met Brother Joseph, Hyrum, Brother Richards and
others. Dr. Bernhisel thinks that W. W. Phelps was not with Joseph and
Hyrum in the morning, but that he met him, myself, Joseph and Hyrum,
Willard Richards and Brother Cahoon, in the afternoon, near Montrose
returning to Nauvoo.
On meeting the brethren I learned that it was not Brother Joseph's
desire to return, but that he came back by request of some of the
brethren, and that it coincided more with Brother Hyrum's feelings than
those of Brother Joseph. In fact, after his return, Brother Hyrum
expressed himself as perfectly satisfied with the course taken, and said
he felt much more at ease in his mind than he did before. On our return
the calculation was to throw ourselves under the immediate protection of
the governor, and to trust to his word and faith for our preservation.
A message was, I believe, sent to the governor that night, stating
that we should come to Carthage in the morning, the party that came along
with us to escort us back, in case we returned to Carthage, having
returned.
It would seem from the following remarks of Governor Ford, that there
was a design on foot, which was, that if we refused to go to Carthage at
the governor's request, there should be an increased force called for by
the governor, and that we should be destroyed by them. In accordance with
this project, Captain Yates returned with his posse, accompanied by the
constable who held the writ.
The following is the governor's remark in relation to this affair:
`The constable and his escort returned. The constable made no effort
to arrest any of them, nor would he or the guard delay their departure one
minute beyond the time, to see whether an arrest could be made, Upon their
return they reported that they had been informed that the accused had
fled, and could not be found. I immediately proposed to a council of
officers to march into Nauvoo with the small force then under my command,
but the officers were of the opinion that it was too small, and many of
them insisted upon a further call of the militia, Upon reflection I was of
the opinion that the officers were right in the estimate of our force, and
the project for immediate action was abandoned.
`I was soon informed, however, of the conduct of the constable and
guard, and then I was perfectly satisfied that a most base fraud had been
attempted; that, in fact, it was feared that the `Mormons' would submit,
and thereby entitle themselves to the protection of the law. It was very
apparent that many of the bustling, active spirits were afraid that there
would be no occasion for calling out an overwhelming militia force, for
marching it into Nauvoo, for probable mutiny when there, and for the
extermination of the `Mormon' race. It appeared that the constable and the
escort were fully in the secret, and acted well their part to promote the
conspiracy.'*
In the morning Brother Joseph had an interview with the officers of
the Legion, with the leading members of the city council, and with the
principal men of the city. The officers were instructed to dismiss their
men, but to have them in a state of readiness to be called upon in any
emergency that might occur.
About half past six o'clock the members of the city council, the
marshal, Brothers Joseph and Hyrum, and a number of others, started for
Carthage, on horseback. We were instructed by Brother Joseph Smith not to
take any arms, and we consequently left them behind. We called at the
house of Brother Fellows on our way out. Brother Fellows lives about four
miles from Carthage.
While at Brother Fellows' house, Captain Dunn, accompanied by Mr.
Coolie, one of the governor's aid-de-camps, came up from Carthage en route
for Nauvoo with a requisition from the governor for the state arms. We all
returned to Nauvoo with them; the governor's request was complied with,
and after taking some refreshments, we all returned to proceed to
Carthage. We arrived there late in the night. A great deal of excitement
prevailed on and after our arrival. The governor had received into his
company all of the companies that had been in the mob; these fellows were
riotous and disorderly, hallooing, yelling, and whooping about the streets
like Indians, many of them intoxicated; the whole presented a scene of
rowdyism and low-bred ruffianism only found among mobocrats and
desperadoes, and entirely revolting to the best feelings of humanity. The
governor made a speech to them to the effect that he would show Joseph and
Hyrum Smith to them in the morning.
About here the companies with the governor were drawn up in line, and
General Deming, I think, took Joseph by the arm and Hyrum (Arnold says
that Joseph took the governor's arm), and as he passed through between the
ranks, the governor leading in front, very politely introduced them as
General Joseph Smith and General Hyrum Smith.
All were orderly and courteous except one company of mobocrats----the
Carthage Greys----who seemed to find fault on account of too much honor
being paid to the `Mormons'. There was afterward a row between the
companies, and they came pretty near having a fight; the more orderly not
feeling disposed to endorse or submit to the rowdyism of the mobocrats.
The result was that General Deming, who was very much of a gentleman,
ordered the Carthage Greys, a company under the command of Captain [R. F.]
Smith, a magistrate in Carthage, and a most violent mobocrat, under
arrest. This matter, however, was shortly afterward adjusted, and the
difficulty settled between them.
The mayor, aldermen, councilors, as well as the marshal of the city
of Nauvoo, together with some persons who had assisted the marshal in
removing the press in Nauvoo, appeared before Justice Smith, the aforesaid
captain and mobocrat, to again answer the charge of destroying the press;
but as there was so much excitement, and as the man was an unprincipled
villain before whom we were to have our hearing, we thought it most
prudent to give bail, and consequently became security for each other in
$500 bonds each, to appear before the county court at its next session. We
had engaged as counsel a lawyer by the name of Wood, of Burlington, Iowa;
and Reed, I think, of Madison, Iowa, After some little discussion the
bonds were signed, and we were all dismissed.
Almost immediately after our dismissal, two men----Augustine Spencer
and Norton----two worthless fellows, whose words would not have been taken
for five cents, and the first of whom had a short time previously been
before the mayor in Nauvoo for maltreating a lame brother, made affidavits
that Joseph and Hyrum Smith were guilty of treason, and a writ was
accordingly issued for their arrest, and the Constable Bettisworth, a
rough, unprincipled man, wished immediately to hurry them away to prison
without any hearing. His rude, uncouth manner in the administration of
what he considered the duties of his office made him exceedingly repulsive
to us all. But, independent of these acts, the proceedings in this case
were altogether illegal. Providing the court was sincere, which it was
not, and Providing these men's oaths were true, and that Joseph and Hyrum
were guilty of treason, still the whole course was illegal.
The magistrate made out a mittimus, and committed them to prison
without a hearing, which he had no right legally to do. The statute of
Illinois expressly provides that `all men shall have a hearing before a
magistrate before they shall be committed to prison'; and Mr. Robert F.
Smith, the magistrate, had made out a mittimus committing them to prison
contrary to law without such hearing. As I was informed of this illegal
proceeding, I went immediately to the governor and informed him of it.
Whether he was apprised of it before or not, I do not know; but my opinion
is that he was.
I represented to him the characters of the parties who had made oath,
the outrageous nature of the charge, the indignity offered to men in the
position which they occupied, and declared to him that he knew very well
it was a vexatious proceeding, and that the accused were not guilty of any
such crime. The governor replied, he was very sorry that the thing had
occurred; that he did not believe the charges, but that he thought the
best thing to be done was to let the law take its course. I then reminded
him that we had come out there at his instance, not to satisfy the law,
which we had done before, but the prejudices of the people, in relation to
the affair of the press; that at his instance we had given bonds, which we
could not by law be required to do to satisfy the people, and that it was
asking too much to require gentlemen in their position in life to suffer
the degradation of being immured in a jail at the instance of such
worthless scoundrels as those who had made this affidavit. The governor
replied that it was an unpleasant affair, and looked hard; but that it was
a matter over which he had no control, as it belonged to the judiciary;
that he, as the executive, could not interfere with their proceedings, and
that he had no doubt but that they would immediately be dismissed. I told
him that we had looked to him for protection from such insults, and that I
thought we had a right to do so from the solemn promises which he had made
to me and to Dr. Bernhisel in relation to our coming without guard or
arms; that we had relied upon his faith, and had a right to expect him to
fulfill his engagements after we had placed ourselves implicitly under his
care, and complied with all his requests, although extra-judicial.
He replied that he would detail a guard, if we required it, and see
us protected, but that he could not interfere with the judiciary. I
expressed my dissatisfaction at the course taken, and told him that, if we
were to be subject to mob rule, and to be dragged, contrary to law, into
prison at the instance of every infernal scoundrel whose oaths could be
bought for a dram of whiskey, his protection availed very little, and we
had miscalculated his promises.
Seeing there was no prospect of redress from the governor, I returned
to the room, and found the Constable Bettisworth very urgent to hurry
Brothers Joseph and Hyrum to prison, while the brethren were remonstrating
with him. At the same time a great rabble was gathered in the streets and
around the door, and from the rowdyism manifested I was afraid there was a
design to murder the prisoners on the way to jail.
Without conferring with any person, any next feelings were to procure
a guard, and, seeing a man habited as a soldier in the room, I went to him
and said, `I am afraid there is a design against the lives of the Messrs.
Smith; will you go immediately and bring your captain; and, if not
convenient any other captain of a company, and I will pay you well for
your trouble?' He said he would, and departed forthwith, and soon returned
with his captain, whose name I have forgotten, and introduced him to me. I
told him of my fears, and requested him immediately to fetch his company.
He departed forthwith, and arrived at the door with them just at the
time when the constable was hurrying the brethren downstairs. A number of
the brethren went along, together with one or two strangers; and all of us
safely lodged in prison, remained there during the night."
CHAPTER VIII.
INTERVIEW BETWEEN JOSEPH SMITH AND GOVERNOR THOMAS FORD
"AT the request of Joseph Smith for an interview with the governor,
he came the next morning, Thursday, June 26th, at half past 9 o'clock,
accompanied by Colonel Thomas Geddes, when a lengthy conversation was
entered into in relation to the existing difficulties; and after some
preliminary remarks, at the governor's request, Brother Joseph gave him a
general outline of the state of affairs in relation to our difficulties,
the excited state of the country, the tumultuous mobocratic movements of
our enemies, the precautionary measures used by himself (Joseph Smith),
the acts of the city council, the destruction of the press, and the moves
of the mob and ourselves up to that time.
The following report is, I believe, substantially correct:
Governor----`General Smith, I believe you have given me a general outline
of the difficulties that have existed in the country in the documents
forwarded to me by Dr. Bernhisel and Mr. Taylor; but, unfortunately, there
seems to be a great discrepancy between your statements and those of your
enemies. It is true that you are substantiated by evidence and affidavit,
but for such an extraordinary excitement as that which is now in the
country there must be some cause, and I attribute the last outbreak to the
destruction of the Expositor, and to your refusal to comply with the writ
issued by Esquire Morrison. The press in the United States is looked upon
as the great bulwark of American freedom, and its destruction in Nauvoo
was represented and looked upon as a high-handed measure, and manifests to
the people a disposition on your part to suppress the liberty of speech
and of the press. This, with your refusal to comply with the requisition
of a writ, I conceive to be the principal cause of this difficulty; and
you are moreover represented to me as turbulent, and defiant of the laws
and institutions of your country.'
General Smith-----"Governor Ford, you, sir, as governor of this
state, are aware of the persecutions that I have endured. You know well
that our course has been peaceable and law-abiding for I have furnished
this state ever since our settlement here with sufficient evidence of my
pacific intentions, and those of the people with whom I am associated, by
the endurance of every conceivable indignity and lawless outrage
perpetrated upon me and upon this people since our settlement here; and
you yourself know that I have kept you well posted in relation to all
matters associated with the late difficulties. If you have not got some of
my communications, it has not been my fault,
`Agreeably to your orders, I assembled the Nauvoo Legion for the
protection of Nauvoo and the surrounding country against an armed band of
marauders; and ever since they have been mustered I have almost daily
communicated with you in regard to all the leading events that have
transpired; and whether in the capacity of mayor of the city, or
lieutenant-general of the Nauvoo Legion, I have striven, according to the
best of my judgment to preserve the peace, and to administer even-handed
justice; but my motives are impugned, my acts are misconstrued, and I am
grossly and wickedly misrepresented. I suppose I am indebted for my
incarceration to the oath of a worthless man, who was arraigned before me
and fined for abusing and maltreating his lame, helpless brother. That I
should be charged by you, sir, who know better, of acting contrary to law,
is to me a matter of surprise. Was it the `Mormons' or our enemies who
first commenced these difficulties? You know well it was not us; and when
this turbulent, outrageous people commenced their insurrectionary
movements I made you acquainted with them officially, and asked your
advice, and have followed strictly your counsel in every particular. Who
ordered out the Nauvoo Legion? I did, under your direction. For what
purpose? To suppress the insurrectionary movements. It was at your
instance, sir, that I issued a Proclamation calling upon the Nauvoo Legion
to be in readiness at a moment's warning to guard against the incursions
of mobs, and gave an order to Jonathan Dunham, acting major-general, to
that effect.
`Am I, then, to be charged with the acts of others? and because
lawlessness and mobocracy abound, am I, when carrying out your
instructions, to be charged with not abiding law? Why is it that I must be
made accountable for other men's acts? If there is trouble in the country,
neither I nor my people made it; and all that we have ever done, after
much endurance on our part, is to maintain and uphold the Constitution and
institutions of our country, and to protect an injured, innocent, and
persecuted people against misrule and mob violence.
`Concerning the destruction of the press to which you refer, men may
differ somewhat in their opinions about it; but can it be supposed that
after all the indignities to which they have been subjected outside, that
people would suffer a set of worthless vagabonds to come into their city,
and, right under their own eyes and protection, vilify and calumniate not
only themselves, but the character of their wives and daughters, as was
impudently and unblushingly done in that infamous and filthy sheet?
`There is not a city in the United States that would have suffered
such an indignity for twenty-four hours. Our whole people were indignant,
and loudly called upon our city authorities for a redress of their
grievances, which, if not attended to, they themselves would have taken
into their own hands, and have summarily punished the audacious wretches
as they deserved. The principle of equal rights that has been instilled
into our bosoms from our cradles as American citizens forbids us
submitting to every foul indignity, and succumbing and pandering to
wretches so infamous as these. But, independent of this, the course that
we pursued we consider to be strictly legal; for, notwithstanding the
result, we were anxious to be governed strictly by law, and therefore we
convened the city council; and being desirous in our deliberations to
abide by law, we summoned legal counsel to be present on the occasion,
Upon investigating the matter, we found that our city charter gave us
power to remove all nuisances. Furthermore, after consulting Blackstone
upon what might be considered a nuisance, it appeared that that
distinguished lawyer, who is considered authority, I believe, in all
courts, states among other things that `a libelous and filthy press may be
considered a nuisance, and abated as such,' Here, then, one of the most
eminent English barristers, whose works are considered standard with us,
declares that a libelous and filthy press may be considered a nuisance;
and our own charter, given us by the legislature of this state, gives us
the power to remove nuisances; and by ordering that press to be abated as
a nuisance, we conceived that we were acting strictly in accordance with
law. We made that order in our corporate capacity, and the city marshal
carried it out. It is possible there may have been some better way, but I
must confess that I could not see it.
`In relation to the writ served upon us, we were willing to abide the
consequences of our own acts, but were unwilling, in answering a writ of
that kind, to submit to illegal exactions, sought to be imposed upon us
under the pretense of law, when we knew they were in open violation of it.
When that document was presented to me by Mr. Bettisworth, I offered, in
the presence of more than twenty persons, to go to any other magistrate,
either in our city, in Appanoose, or any other place where we should be
safe, but we all refused to put ourselves into the power of a mob. What
right had that constable to refuse our request? He had none according to
law; for you know, Governor Ford, that the statute law in Illinois is,
that the parties served with the writ `shall go before him who issued it,
or some other justice of the peace.' Why, then, should we be dragged to
Carthage, where the law does not compel us to go? Does not this look like
many others of our persecutions with which you are acquainted? and have we
not a right to expect foul play? This very act was a breach of law on his
part, an assumption of power that did not belong to him, and an attempt,
at least, to deprive us of our legal and constitutional rights and
privileges. What could we do, under the circumstances, different from what
we did do? We sued for, and obtained a writ of habeas corpus from the
municipal court, by which we were delivered from the hands of Constable
Bettisworth, and brought before and acquitted by the municipal court.
After our acquittal, in a conversation with Judge Thomas, although he
considered the acts of the party illegal, he advised that, to satisfy the
people, we had better go before another magistrate who was not in our
church. In accordance with his advice, we went before Esquire Wells, with
whom you are well acquainted; both parties were present, witnesses were
called on both sides, the case was fully investigated, and we were again
dismissed. And what is this pretended desire to enforce law, and wherefore
are these lying, base rumors put into circulation but to seek, through mob
influence, under pretense of law, to make us submit to requisitions which
are contrary to law and subversive of every principle of justice? And when
you, sir, required us to come out here, we came, not because it was legal,
but because you required it of us, and we were desirous of showing to you,
and to all men, that we shrunk not from the most rigid investigation of
our acts. We certainly did expect other treatment than to be immured in a
jail at the instance of these men, and I think, from your plighted faith,
we had a right so to expect, after disbanding our own forces, and putting
ourselves entirely in your hands. And now, after having fulfilled my part,
sir, as a man and an American citizen, I call upon you, Governor Ford, to
deliver us from this place, and rescue us from this outrage that is sought
to be practiced upon us by a set of infamous scoundrels.'
Governor Ford----`But you have placed men under arrest, detained men
as prisoners, and given passes to others, some of which I have seen.'
John P. Greene, City Marshal----`Perhaps I can explain. Since these
difficulties have commenced, you are aware that we have been placed under
very peculiar circumstances; our city has been placed under a very rigid
police guard; in addition to this, frequent guards have been placed
outside the city to prevent any sudden surprise, and those guards have
questioned suspected or suspicious persons as to their business. To
strangers, in some instances, passes have been given to prevent difficulty
in passing those guards; it is some of these passes that you have seen. No
person, sir, has been imprisoned without a legal cause in our city.'
Governor-----`Why did you not give a more speedy answer to the posse
that I sent out?'
General Smith----`We had matters of importance to consult upon; your
letter showed anything but an amiable spirit. We have suffered immensely
in Missouri from mobs, in loss of property, imprisonment, and otherwise.
It took some time for us to weigh duly these matters; we could not decide
upon matters of such importance immediately, and your posse were too hasty
in returning; we were consulting for a large people, and vast interests
were at stake. We had been outrageously imposed upon, and knew not how far
we could trust anyone, besides, a question necessarily arose, how shall we
come? Your request was that we should come unarmed. It became a matter of
serious importance to decide how far promises could be trusted, and how
far we were safe from mob violence.'
Colonel Geddes----`It certainly did look from all I have heard, from
the general spirit of violence and mobocracy that here prevails, that it
was not safe for you to come unprotected.'
Governor Ford----`I think that sufficient time was not allowed by the
posse for you to consult and get ready. They were too hasty; but I suppose
they found themselves bound by their orders. I think, too, there is a
great deal of truth in what you say, and your reasoning is plausible, but
I must beg leave to differ from you in relation to the acts of the city
council. That council, in my opinion, had no right to act in a legislative
capacity and in that of the judiciary. They should have passed a law in
relation to the matter, and then the municipal court, upon complaint,
could have removed it [i.e., the Expositor press] ; but for the city
council to take upon themselves the law-making and the execution of the
law, is, in my opinion, wrong; besides, these men ought to have had a
hearing before their property was destroyed; to destroy it without was an
infringement on their rights; besides, it is so contrary to the feelings
of American people to interfere with the press. And, furthermore, I cannot
but think that it would have been more judicious for you to have gone with
Mr. Bettisworth to Carthage, notwithstanding the law did not require it.
Concerning your being in jail, I am sorry for that; I wish it had been
otherwise. I hope you will soon be released, but I can not interfere.'
Joseph Smith----`Governor Ford, allow me, sir, to bring one thing to
your mind that you seem to have overlooked. You state that you think it
would have been better for us to have submitted to the requisition of
Constable Bettisworth, and to have gone to Carthage. Do you not know, sir,
that that writ was served at the instance of an `anti-Mormon' mob, who had
passed resolutions, and published them, to the effect that they would
exterminate the `Mormon' leaders? And are you not informed that Captain
Anderson was not only threatened but had a gun fired at his boat by this
said mob in Warsaw when coming up to Nauvoo, and that this very thing was
made use of as a means to get us into their hands; and we could not,
without taking an armed force with us, go there without, according to
their published declarations, going into the jaws of death? To have taken
a force with us would only have fanned the excitement, and they would have
stated that we wanted to use intimidation; therefore, we thought it the
most judicious to avail ourselves of the protection of law.'
Governor Ford----`I see, I see.'
Joseph Smith----`Furthermore, in relation to the press, you say that
you differ from me in opinion. Be it so; the thing, after all, is only a
legal difficulty, and the courts, I should judge, are competent to decide
on that matter. If our act was illegal, we are willing to meet it and
although I can not see the distinction that you draw about the acts of the
city council, and what difference it could have made in point of fact,
law, or justice between the city council's acting together or separate, or
how much more legal it would have been for the municipal court, who were a
part of the city council, to act separately instead of with the
councilors, yet if it is deemed that we did a wrong in destroying that
press, we refuse not to pay for it; we are desirous to fulfill the law in
every particular, and are responsible for our acts. You say that the
parties ought to have had a hearing. Had it been a civil suit, this, of
course, would have been proper; but there was a flagrant violation of
every principle of right----a nuisance; and it was abated on the same
principle that any nuisance, stench, or putrefied carcass would have been
removed, Our first step, therefore, was to stop the foul, noisome, filthy
sheet, and then the next in our opinion would have been to have prosecuted
the man for a breach of public decency. And, furthermore, again let me
say, Governor Ford, I shall look to you for our protection. I believe you
are talking of going to Nauvoo; if you go, sir, I wish to go along. I
refuse not to answer any law, but I do not consider myself safe here.'
Governor----`I am in hopes that you will be acquitted, and if I go I
will certainly take you along. I do not. however, apprehend danger. I
think you are perfectly safe either here or anywhere else. I can not,
however, interfere with the law. I am placed in peculiar circumstances,
and seem to be blamed by all parties.
Joseph Smith----`Governor Ford, I ask nothing but what is legal; I
have a right to expect protection, at least from you; for, independent of
law, you have pledged your faith and that of the state for my protection,
and I wish to go to Nauvoo.'
Governor-----`And you shall have protection, General Smith. I did not
make this promise without consulting my officers, who all pledged their
honor to its fulfillment. I do not know that I shall go tomorrow to
Nauvoo, but if I do I will take you along.'
At a quarter past ten o'clock the governor left."
CHAPTER IX
THE ASSAULT UPON THE PRISON----THE MURDER OF JOSEPH AND HYRUM SMITH
"AT about half past twelve o'clock, Mr. Reed, one of Joseph's
counsel, came in, apparently much elated; he stated that, upon an
examination of the law, he found that the magistrate had transcended his
jurisdiction, and that, having committed them without an examination, his
jurisdiction ended; that he had him upon a pinhook; that he ought to have
examined them before he committed them, and that, having violated the law
in this particular, he had no farther power over them; for, once
committed, they were out of his jurisdiction, as the power of the
magistrate extended no farther than their committal, and that now they
could not be brought out except at the regular session of the circuit
court, or by a writ of habeas corpus; but that if Justice Smith would
consent to go to Nauvoo for trial, he would compromise matters with him,
and overlook this matter.
Mr. Reed farther stated that the `anti-Mormons', or mob had concocted
a scheme to get a writ from Missouri, with a demand upon Governor Ford for
the arrest of Joseph Smith, and his conveyance to Missouri, and that a man
by the name of Wilson had returned from Missouri the night before the
burning of the press for this purpose.
At half past two o'clock Constable Bettisworth came to the jail with
a man named Simpson, professing to have some order, but he would not send
up his name, and the guard would not let him pass. Dr.
Bernhisel and Brother Wasson went to inform the governor and council
of this, At about twenty minutes to three Dr. Bernhisel returned, and
stated that he thought the governor was doing all he could. At about ten
minutes to three Hiram Kimball appeared with news from Nauvoo.
Soon after Constable Bettisworth came with an order from Esquire
Smith to convey the prisoners to the courthouse for trial. He was informed
that the process was illegal, that they had been placed there contrary to
law, and that they refused to come unless by legal process. I was informed
that Justice [Robert F.] Smith (who was also captain of the Carthage
Greys) went to the governor and informed him of the matter, and that the
governor replied, `You have your forces, and of course can use them.' The
constable certainly did return, accompanied by a guard of armed men, and
by force, and under protest, hurried the prisoners to the court.
About four o'clock the case was called by Captain Robert F. Smith, J.
P. The counsel for the prisoners called for subpoenas to bring witnesses.
At twenty-five minutes past four he took a copy of the order to bring the
prisoners from jail to trial, and afterwards he took names of witnesses.
Counsel present for the state; Higbee, Skinner, Sharp, Emmons, and
Morrison. Twenty-five minutes to five the writ was returned as served,
June 25th.
Many remarks were made at the court that I paid but little attention
to, as I considered the whole thing illegal and a complete burlesque. Wood
objected to the proceedings in total, in consequence of its illegality,
showing that the prisoners were not only illegally committed, but that,
being once committed, the magistrate had no farther power over them; but
as it was the same magistrate before whom he was pleading who imprisoned
them contrary to law, and the same who, as captain, forced them from jail,
his arguments availed but little. He then urged that the prisoners be
remanded until witnesses could be had, and applied for a continuance for
that purpose. Skinner suggested until twelve o'clock next day. Wood again
demanded until witnesses could be obtained; that the court meet at a
specified time, and that, if witnesses were not present, again adjourn,
without calling the prisoners. After various remarks from Reed, Skinner,
and others, the court stated that the writ was served yesterday, and that
it will give until tomorrow at twelve p. m. to get witnesses.
We then returned to jail. Immediately after our return Dr. Bernhisel
went to the governor, and obtained from him an order for us to occupy a
large open room containing a bedstead. I rather think that the same room
had been appropriated to the use of debtors; at any rate, there was free
access to the jailor's house, and no bars or locks except such as might be
on the outside door of the jail. The jailor, Mr. George W. Steghall, and
his wife, manifested a disposition to make us as comfortable as they
could; we ate at their table, which was well provided, and, of course,
paid for it.
I do not remember the names of all who were with us that night and
the next morning in jail, for several went and came; among those that we
considered stationary were Stephen Markham, John S. Fullmer, Captain Dan
Jones, Dr. Willard Richards, and myself. Dr. Bernhisel says that he was
there from Wednesday in the afternoon until eleven o'clock next day. We
were, however, visited by numerous friends, among whom were Uncle John
Smith, Hiram Kimball, Cyrus H. Wheelock, besides lawyers, as counsel.
There was also a great variety of conversation, which was rather desultory
than otherwise, and referred to circumstances that had transpired, our
former and present grievances, the spirit of the troops around us, and the
disposition of the governor; the devising for legal and other plans for
deliverance, the nature of testimony required; the gathering of proper
witnesses, and a variety of other topics, including our religious hopes,
etc.
During one of these conversations Dr. Richards remarked: `Brother
Joseph, if it is necessary that you die in this matter, and if they will
take me in your stead, I will suffer for you.' At another time, when
conversing about deliverance, I said, `Brother Joseph, if you will permit
it, and say the word, I will have you out of this prison in five hours, if
the jail has to come down to do it.' My idea was to go to Nauvoo, and
collect a force sufficient, as I considered the whole affair a legal
farce, and a flagrant outrage upon our liberty and rights. Brother Joseph
refused.
Elder Cyrus H. Wheelock came in to see us, and when he was about
leaving drew a small pistol, a six-shooter, from his pocket, remarking at
the same time, Would any of you like to have this?' Brother Joseph
immediately replied, `Yes, give it to me,' whereupon he took the pistol,
and put it in his pantaloons pocket. The pistol was a six-shooting
revolver, of Allen's patent; it belonged to me, and was one that I
furnished to Brother Wheelock when he talked of going with me to the east,
previous to our coming to Carthage. I have it now in my possession.
Brother Wheelock went out on some errand, and was not suffered to return.
The report of the governor having gone to Nauvoo without taking the
prisoners along with him caused very unpleasant feelings, as we were
apprised that we were left to the tender mercies of the Carthage Greys, a
company strictly mobocratic, and whom we knew to be our most deadly
enemies; and their captain, Esquire [Robert F.] Smith, was a most
unprincipled villain. Besides this, all the mob forces, comprising the
governor's troops, were dismissed, with the exception of one or two
companies, which the governor took with him to Nauvoo. The great part of
the mob was liberated, the remainder was our guard.
We looked upon it not only as a breach of faith on the part of the
governor, but also as an indication of a desire to insult us, if nothing
more, by leaving us in the proximity of such men. The prevention of
Wheelock's return was among the first of their hostile movements.
Colonel Markham went out, and he was also prevented from returning.
He was very angry at this, but the mob paid no attention to him, they
drove him out of town at the point of the bayonet, and threatened to shoot
him if he returned, He went, I am informed, to Nauvoo for the purpose of
raising a company of men for our protection. Brother Fullmer went to
Nauvoo after witnesses: it is my opinion that Brother Wheelock did also.
Sometime after dinner we sent for some wine. It has been reported by
some that this was taken as a sacrament. It was no such thing; our spirits
were generally dull and heavy, and it was sent for to revive us. I think
it was Captain Jones who went after it, but they would not suffer him to
return. I believe we all drank of the wine, and gave some to one or two of
the prison guards. We all of us felt unusually dull and languid, with a
remarkable depression of spirits. In consonance with those feelings I sang
a song, that had lately been introduced into Nauvoo, entitled, A Poor
Wayfaring Man of Grief', etc.
The song is pathetic, and the tune quite plaintive, and was very much
in accordance with our feelings at the time for our spirits were all
depressed, dull and gloomy and surcharged with indefinite ominous
forebodings. After a lapse of some time, Brother Hyrum requested me again
to sing that song. I replied, `Brother Hyrum, I do not feel like singing;'
when he remarked, `Oh, never mind; commence singing, and you will get the
spirit of it.'
At his request I did so. Soon afterwards I was sitting at one of the
front windows of the jail, when I saw a number of men, with painted faces,
coming around the corner of the jail, and aiming towards the stairs.
The other brethren had seen the same, for, as I went to the door, I
found Brother Hyrum Smith and Dr. Richards already leaning against it,
They both pressed against the door with their shoulders to prevent its
being opened, as the lock and latch were comparatively useless. While in
this position, the mob, who had come upstairs, and tried to open the door,
probably thought it was locked, and fired a ball through the keyhole; at
this Dr. Richards and Brother Hyrum leaped back from the door, with their
faces towards it; almost instantly another ball passed through the panel
of the door, and struck Brother Hyrum on the left side of the nose,
entering his face and head. At the same instant, another ball from the
outside entered his back, passing through his body and striking his watch.
The ball came from the back, through the jail window, opposite the door,
and must, from its range, have been fired from the Carthage Greys, who
were placed there ostensibly for our protection, as the balls from the
firearms, shot close by the jail, would have entered the ceiling, we being
in the second story, and there never was a time after that when Hyrum
could have received the latter wound. Immediately, when the ball struck
him, he fell flat on his back, crying as he fell, `I am a dead man!' He
never moved afterwards.
I shall never forget the deep feeling of sympathy and regard
manifested in the countenance of Brother Joseph as he drew nigh to Hyrum,
and, leaning over him, exclaimed, `Oh! my poor, dear brother Hyrum!' He,
however, instantly arose, and with a firm, quick step, and a determined
expression of countenance, approached the door, and pulling the
six-shooter left by Brother Wheelock from his pocket, opened the door
slightly, and snapped the pistol six successive times;
only three of the barrels, however, were discharged. I afterwards
understood that two or three were wounded by these discharges, two of
whom, I am informed, died, I had in my hands a large, strong hickory
stick, brought there by Brother Markham, and left by him, which I had
seized as soon as I saw the mob approach; and while Brother Joseph was
firing the pistol, I stood close behind him. As soon as he had discharged
it he stepped back, and I immediately took his place next to the door,
while he occupied the one I had done while he was shooting. Brother
Richards, at this time, had a knotty walking-stick in his hands belonging
to me, and stood next to Brother Joseph, a little farther from the door,
in an oblique direction, apparently to avoid the rake of the fire from the
door. The firing of Brother Joseph made our assailants pause for a moment;
very soon after, however, they pushed the door some distance open, and
protruded and discharged their guns into the room, when I parried them off
with my stick, giving another direction to the balls.
It certainly was a terrible scene: streams of fire as thick as my arm
passed by me as these men fired, and, unarmed as we were, it looked like
certain death. I remember feeling as though my time had come, but I do not
know when, in any critical position, I was more calm, unruffled,
energetic, and acted with more promptness and decision. It certainly was
far from pleasant to be so near the muzzles of those firearms as they
belched forth their liquid flames and deadly balls. While I was engaged in
parrying the guns, Brother Joseph said, `That's right, Brother Taylor,
parry them off as well as you can.' These were the last words I ever heard
him speak on earth.
Every moment the crowd at the door became more dense, as they were
unquestionably pressed on by those in the rear ascending the stairs, until
the whole entrance at the door was literally crowded with muskets and
rifles, which, with the swearing, shouting, and demoniacal expressions of
those outside the door and on the stairs, and the firing of the guns,
mingled with their horrid oaths and execrations, made it look like
pandemonium let loose, and was, indeed, a fit representation of the horrid
deed in which they were engaged.
After parrying the guns for some time, which now protruded thicker
and farther into the room, and seeing no hope of escape or protection
there, as we were now unarmed, it occurred to me that we might have some
friends outside, and that there might be some chance of escape in that
direction, but here there seemed to be none. As I expected them every
moment to rush into the room----nothing but extreme cowardice having thus
far kept them out----as the tumult and pressure increased, without any
other hope, I made a spring for the window which was right in front of the
jail door, where the mob was standing, and also exposed to the fire of the
Carthage Greys, who were stationed some ten or twelve rods off. The
weather was hot, we all of us had our coats off, and the window was raised
to admit air. As I reached the window, and was on the point of leaping
out, I was struck by a ball from the door about midway of my thigh, which
struck the bone. and flattened out almost to the size of a quarter of a
dollar, and then passed on through the fleshy part to within about half an
inch of the outside. I think some prominent nerve must have been, severed
or injured for, as soon as the ball struck me, I fell like a bird when
shot, or an ox when struck by a butcher, and lost entirely and
instantaneously all power of action or locomotion. I fell upon the
window-sill, and cried out, `I am shot!' Not possessing any power to move.
I felt myself falling outside of the window, but immediately I fell
inside, from some, at that time, unknown cause. When I struck the floor my
animation seemed restored, as I have seen it sometimes in squirrels and
birds after being shot. As soon as I felt the power of motion I crawled
under the bed, which was in a corner of the room, not far from the window
where I
received my wound. While on my way and under the bed I was wounded in
three other places; one ball entered a little below the left knee, and
never was extracted; another entered the forepart of my left arm, a little
above the wrist, and, passing down by the joint, lodged in the fleshy part
of my hand, about midway, a little above the upper joint of my little
finger; another struck me on the fleshy part of my left hip, and tore away
the flesh as large as my hand, dashing the mangled fragments of flesh and
blood against the wall.
My wounds were painful, and the sensation produced was as though a
ball had passed through and down the whole length of my leg. I very well
remember my reflections at the time. I had a very painful idea of becoming
lame and decrepid, and being an object of pity, and I felt as though I
would rather die than be placed in such circumstances.
It would seem that immediately after my attempt to leap out of the
window, Joseph also did the same thing, of which circumstance I have no
knowledge only from information. The first thing that I noticed was a cry
that he had leaped out of the window. A cessation of firing followed, the
mob rushed downstairs, and Dr. Richards went to the window. Immediately
afterward I saw the doctor going towards the jail door, and as there was
an iron door at the head of the stairs adjoining our door which led into
the cells for criminals, it struck me that the doctor was going in there,
and I said to him, `Stop, Doctor, and take me along.' He proceeded to the
door and opened it, and then returned and dragged me along to a small cell
prepared for criminals.
Brother Richards was very much troubled, and exclaimed, `Oh! Brother
Taylor, is it possible that they have killed both Brother Hyrum and
Joseph? it cannot surely be, and yet I saw them shoot them;' and,
elevating his hands two or three times, he exclaimed, `Oh Lord, my God,
spare Thy servants!' He then said, `Brother Taylor, this is a terrible
event;' and he dragged me farther into the cell, saying, `I am sorry I can
not do better for you;' and, taking an old, filthy mattress, he covered me
with it, and said, `That may hide you, and you may yet live to tell the
tale, but I expect they will kill me in a few moments!' While lying in
this position I suffered the most excruciating pain.
Soon afterwards Dr. Richards came to me, informed me that the mob had
precipitately fled, and at the same time confirmed my worst fears that
Joseph was assuredly dead. I felt a dull, lonely, sickening sensation at
the news. When I reflected that our noble chieftain, prophet of the living
God, had fallen, and that I had seen his brother in the cold embrace of
death, it seemed as though there was a void or vacuum in the great field
of human existence to me, and a dark gloomy chasm in the kingdom, and that
we were left alone. Oh, how lonely was that feeling! How cold, barren and
desolate! In the midst of difficulties he was always the first in motion;
in critical positions his counsel was always sought. As our Prophet he
approached our God, and obtained for us his will; but now our Prophet, our
counselor, our general, our leader, was gone, and amid the fiery ordeal
that we then had to pass through, we were left alone without his aid, and
as our future guide for things spiritual or temporal, and for all things
pertaining to this world, or the next, he had spoken for the last time on
earth.
These reflections and a thousand others flashed upon my mind. I
thought, why must the good perish, and the virtuous be destroyed? Why must
God's nobility, the salt of the earth, the most exalted of the human
family, and the most perfect types of all excellence, fall victims to the
cruel, fiendish hate of incarnate devils?
The poignancy of my grief, I presume, however, was somewhat allayed
by the extreme suffering that I endured from my wounds.
Soon afterwards I was taken to the head of the stairs and laid there,
where I had a full view of our beloved and now murdered brother, Hyrum.
There he lay as I had left him; he had not moved a limb; he lay placid and
calm, a monument of greatness even in death; but his noble spirit had left
its tenement, and was gone to dwell in regions more congenial to its
exalted nature. Poor Hyrum! He was a great and good man, and my soul was
cemented to his. If ever there was an exemplary, honest, and virtuous man,
an embodiment of all that is noble in the human form, Hyrum Smith was its
representative.
While I lay there a number of persons came around, among whom was a
physician. The doctor, on seeing a ball lodged in my left hand, took a
penknife from his pocket and made an incision in it for the purpose of
extracting the ball therefrom, and having obtained a pair of carpenter's
compasses, made use of them to draw or pry out the ball, alternately using
the penknife and compasses. After sawing for some time with a dull
penknife, and prying and pulling with the compasses, he ultimately
succeeded in extracting the ball, which weighed about half an ounce. Some
time afterwards he remarked to a friend of mine that I had `nerves like
the devil', to stand what I did in its extraction. I really thought I had
need of nerves to stand such surgical butchery, and that, whatever my
nerves may be, his practice was devilish.
This company wished to remove me to Mr. Hamilton's Hotel, the place
where we had stayed previous to our incarceration in jail. I told them,
however, that I did not wish to go: I did not consider it safe. They
protested that it was, and that I was safe with them; that it was a
perfect outrage for men to be used as we had been; that they were my
friends; that it was for my good they were counseling me, and that I could
be better taken care of there than here.
I replied, `I don't know you. Whom am I among?
I am surrounded by assassins and murderers; witness your deeds. Don't
talk to me of kindness or comfort; look at your murdered victims. Look at
me! I want none of your counsel nor comfort. There may be some safety
here; I can be assured of none anywhere,' etc.
They G----d----their souls to hell, made the most solemn
asseverations, and swore by God and the devil, and everything else that
they could think of, that they would stand by me to death and protect me.
In half an hour every one of them fled from the town.
Soon after a coroner's jury were assembled in the room over the body
of Hyrum, Among the jurors was Captain Smith of the `Carthage Greys', who
had assisted in the murder, and the same justice before whom we had been
tried. I learned of Francis Higbee as being in the neighborhood. On
hearing his name mentioned, I immediately arose and said, `Captain Smith,
you are a justice of the peace; I have heard his name mentioned; I want to
swear my life against him.' I was informed that word was immediately sent
to him to leave the place, which he did.
Brother Richards was busy during this time attending to the coroner's
inquest, and to the removal of the bodies, and making arrangements for
their removal from Carthage to Nauvoo.
When he had a little leisure, he again came to me, and at his
suggestion I was removed to Hamilton's Tavern. I felt that he was the only
friend, the only person, that I could rely upon in that town. It was with
difficulty that sufficient persons could be found to carry me to the
tavern; for immediately after the murder a great fear fell upon all the
people, and men, and children fled with great precipitation, leaving
nothing nor anybody in the town but tow or three women and children and
one or two sick persons.
It was with great difficulty that Brother Richards prevailed upon Mr.
Hamilton, hotelkeeper, and his family, to stay; they would not until
Brother Richards had given a solemn promise that he would see them
protected, and hence I was looked upon as a hostage. Under these
circumstances, notwithstanding, I believe they were hostile to the
`Mormons', a that the murder had taken place, though they did not actually
participate in it; and, feeling that I should be a protection to them they
stayed.
The whole community knew that a dreadful outrage had been perpetrated
by those villains, and fearing lest the citizens of Nauvoo, as they
possessed the power, might have a disposition to visit them with a
terrible vengeance, they fled in the wildest confusion. And, indeed, it
was with very great difficulty that the citizens of Nauvoo could be
restrained. A horrid, barbarous murder had been committed, the most solemn
pledge violated, and that, too, while the victims were, contrary to the
requirements of the law, putting themselves into the hands of the governor
to pacify a popular excitement. This outrage was enhanced by the
reflection that our people were able to protect themselves against not
only all the mob, but against three times their number and that of the
governor's troops put together. They were also exasperated by the speech
of the governor in town.
The whole events were so faithless, so dastardly, so mean, cowardly,
and contemptible, without one extenuating circumstance, that it would not
have been surprising if the citizens of Nauvoo had arisen en masse. and
blotted the wretches out of existence. The citizens of Carthage knew they
would have done so under such circumstances, and, judging us by
themselves, they were all panic-stricken, and fled. Colonel Markham, too,
after his expulsion from Carthage, had gone home, related the
circumstances of his ejectment, and was using his influence to get a
company to go out. Fearing that when the people heard that their Prophet
and Patriarch had been murdered under the above circumstances they might
act rashly, and knowing that, if they once got roused, like a mighty
avalanche they would lay the country waste before them and take a terrible
vengeance----as none of the Twelve were in Nauvoo, and no one, perhaps,
with sufficient influence to control the people, Dr. Richards, after
consulting me, wrote the following note, fearing that my family might be
seriously affected by the news. I told him to insert that I was slightly
wounded.
WILLARD RICHARDS' NOTE FROM CARTHAGE JAIL TO NAUVOO `Carthage Jail,
8 o'clock 5 min. p.m., June 27th, 1844. `Joseph and Hyrum are dead. Taylor
wounded, not very badly. I am well, Our guard was forced, as we believe,
by a band of Missourians from 100 to 200. The job was done in an instant,
and the party fled towards Nauvoo instantly. This is as I believe it. The
citizens here are afraid of the `Mormons' attacking them; I promise them
no. [Signed] W. RICHARDS.
`N. B.---The citizens promise us protection; alarm guns have been
fired. [Signed] JOHN TAYLOR.
I remember signing my name as quickly as possible, lest the tremor of
my hand should be noticed, and the fears of my family excited.
A messenger was dispatched immediately with the note, but he was
intercepted by the governor, who, on hearing a cannon fired at Carthage,
which was to be the signal for the murder, immediately fled with his
company, and fearing that the citizens of Nauvoo, when apprised of the
horrible outrage, would immediately rise and pursue, he turned back the
messenger, who was George D. Grant. A second one was sent, who was treated
similarly; and not until a third attempt could news be got to Nauvoo.
Samuel H. Smith, brother to Joseph and Hyrum, was the first brother I
saw after the outrage; I am not sure whether he took the news or not; he
lived at the time in Plymouth, Hancock county, and was on his way to
Carthage to see his brothers, when he was met by some of the troops, or
rather mob, that had been dismissed by the governor, and who were on their
way home. On learning that he was Joseph Smith's brother they sought to
kill him, but he escaped, and fled into the woods, where he was chased for
a length of time by them; but, after severe fatigue, and much danger and
excitement, he succeeded in escaping, and came to Carthage. He was on
horseback when he arrived, and was not only very much tired with the
fatigue and excitement of the chase, but was also very much distressed in
feelings on account of the death of his brothers. These things produced a
fever, which laid the foundation for his death, which took place on the
30th of July. Thus another of the brothers fell a victim, although not
directly, but indirectly to this infernal mob.
I lay from about five o'clock until two next morning without having
my wounds dressed, as there was scarcely any help of any kind in Carthage,
and Brother Richards was busy with the dead bodies, preparing them for
removal. My wife Leonora started early the next day, having had some
little trouble in getting a company or a physician to come with her; after
considerable difficulty she succeeded in getting an escort, and Dr. Samuel
Bennett came along with her. Soon after my father and mother arrived from
Oquakie, near which place they had a farm at that time, and hearing of the
trouble, hastened along.
General Deming, brigadier-general of the Hancock county militia, was
very much of a gentleman, and showed me every courtesy, and Colonel Jones
also was very solicitous about my welfare.
I was called upon by several gentlemen of Quincy and other places,
among whom was Judge Ralston, as well as by our own people, and a medical
man extracted a ball from my left thigh that was giving me much pain; it
lay about half an inch deep, and my thigh was considerably swollen. The
doctor asked me if I would be tied during the operation; I told him no;
that I could endure the cutting associated with the operation as well
without, and I did so; indeed, so great was the pain I endured that the
cutting was rather a relief than otherwise.
A very laughable incident occurred at the time; my wife, Leonora,
went into an adjoining room to pray for me, that I might be sustained
during the operation. While on her knees at prayer, a Mrs. Bedell, an old
lady of the Methodist association, entered, and, patting Mrs. Taylor on
her back with her hand, said, `There's a good lady, pray for God to
forgive your sins; pray that you may be converted, and the Lord may have
mercy on your soul.'
The scene was so ludicrous that Mrs. Taylor knew not whether to laugh
or be angry. Mrs. Taylor informed me that Mr. Hamilton, the father of the
Hamilton who kept the house, rejoiced at the murder, and said in company
that `it was done up in the best possible style, and showed good
generalship,' and she farther believed that the other branches of the
family sanctioned it, These were the associates of the old lady referred
to, and yet she could talk of conversion and saving souls in the midst of
blood and murder: such is man and such consistency!
The ball being extracted was the one that first struck me, which I
before referred to; it entered on the outside of my left thigh, about five
inches from my knee, and passing rather obliquely towards my body, had, it
would seem, struck the bone, for it was flattened out nearly as thin and
large as a quarter of a dollar.
The governor passed on, staying at Carthage only a few minutes, and
he did not stop until he got fifty miles from Nauvoo."
CHAPTER X.
WAS GOVERNOR FORD RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MURDER OF THE PROPHET AND
PATRIARCH OF THE NEW DISPENSATION
"THERE had been various opinions about the complicity of the governor
in the murder, some supposing that he knew all about it, and assisted or
winked at its execution. It is somewhat difficult to form a correct
opinion; from the facts presented it is very certain that things looked
more than suspicious against him.
In the first place, he positively knew that we had broken no law.
Secondly. He knew that the mob had not only passed inflammatory
resolutions, threatening extermination to the `Mormons', but that they had
actually assembled armed mobs and commenced hostilities against us.
Thirdly. He took those very mobs that had been arrayed against us,
and enrolled them as his troops, thus legalizing their acts.
Fourthly. He disbanded the Nauvoo Legion, which had never violated
law, and disarmed them, and had about his person in the shape of militia
known mobocrats and violators of the law.
Fifthly. He requested us to come to Carthage without arms, promising
protection, and then refused to interfere in delivering us from prison,
although Joseph and Hyrum were put there contrary to law.
Sixthly. Although he refused to interfere in our behalf, yet, when
Captain Smith went to him and informed him that the persons refused to
come out, he told him that he had a command and knew what to do, thus
sanctioning the use of force in the violation of law when opposed to us,
whereas he would not for us interpose his executive authority to free us
from being incarcerated contrary to law, although he was fully informed of
all the facts of the case, as we kept him posted in the affairs all the
time.
Seventhly He left the prisoners in Carthage jail contrary to his
plighted faith.
Eighthly. Before he went he dismissed all the troops that could be
relied upon, as well as many of the mob, and left us in charge of the
`Carthage Greys', a company that he knew were mobocratic, our most bitter
enemies, and who had passed resolutions to exterminate us, and who had
been placed under guard by General Deming only the day before.
Ninthly, He was informed of the intended murder, both before he left
and while on the road, by several different parties.
Tenthly. When the cannon was fired in Carthage, signifying that the
deed was done, he immediately took up his line of march and fled. How did
he know that this signal portended their death if he was not in the
secret? It may be said some of the party told him, How could he believe
what the party said about the gun signal if he could not believe the
testimony of several individuals who told him in positive terms about the
contemplated murder?
He has, I believe, stated that he left the `Carthage Greys' there
because he considered that, as their town was contiguous to ours, and as
the responsibility of our safety rested solely upon them, they would not
dare suffer any indignity to befall us. This very admission shows that he
did really expect danger; and then he knew that these people had published
to the world that they would exterminate us, and his leaving us in their
hands and taking of their responsibilities was like leaving a lamb in
charge of a wolf, and trusting to its humanity and honor for its
safe-keeping.
It is said, again, that he would not have gone to Nauvoo, and thus
placed himself in the hands of the `Mormons', if he had anticipated any
such event, as he would be exposed to their wrath. To this it may be
answered that the `Mormons' did not know their signals, while he did; and
they were also known in Warsaw, as well as in other places; and as soon as
the gun was fired, a merchant of Warsaw jumped upon his horse and rode
directly to Quincy, and reported, Joseph and Hyrum killed, and those who
were with them in jail.' He reported farther that `they were attempting to
break jail, and were all killed by the guard.' This was their story; it
was anticipated to kill all, and the gun was to be the signal that the
deed was accomplished. This was known in Warsaw. The governor also knew it
and fled; and he could really be in no danger in Nauvoo, for the `Mormons'
did not know it, and he had plenty of time to escape, which he did.
It is said that he made all his officers promise solemnly that they
would help him to protect the Smiths; this may or may not be. At any rate,
some of these same officers helped to murder them.
The strongest argument in the governor's favor, and one that would
bear more weight with us than all the rest put together, would be that he
could not believe them capable of such atrocity; and, thinking that their
threatenings were a mere ebullition of feeling, a kind of braggadocio, and
that there was enough of good moral feeling to control the more violent
passions, he trusted to their faith. There is, indeed, a degree of
plausibility about this, but when we put it in juxtaposition
to the amount of evidence that he was in possession of it weighs very
little. He had nothing to inspire confidence in them, and everything to
make him mistrust them. Besides, why his broken faith? Why his disregard
of what was told him by several parties? Again, if he knew not the plan
how did he understand the signal? Why so oblivious to everything
pertaining to the `Mormon' interest, and so alive and interested about the
mobocrats? At any rate, be this as it may, he stands responsible for their
blood, and it is dripping on his garments. If it had not been for his
promise of protection, they would have protected themselves; it was
plighted faith that led them to the slaughter; and, to make the best of
it, it was a breach of that faith and a nonfulfillment of that promise,
after repeated warning, that led to their death.
Having said so much, I must leave the governor with my readers and
with his God. Justice, I conceive, demanded this much, and truth could not
be told with less; as I have said before, my opinion is that the governor
would not have planned this murder, but he had not sufficient energy to
resist popular opinion, even if that opinion led to blood and death.
It was rumored that a strong political party, numbering in its ranks
many of the prominent men of the nation, were engaged in a plot for the
overthrow of Joseph Smith, and that the governor was of this party, and
Sharp, Williams, Captain Smith, and others, were his accomplices, but
whether this was the case or not I do not know. It is very certain that a
strong political feeling existed against Joseph Smith, and I have reason
to believe that his letters to Henry Clay were made use of by political
parties opposed to Mr. Clay, and were the means of that statesman's
defeat. Yet, if such a combination as the one referred to existed, I am
not apprised of it.
While I lay at Carthage, previous to Mrs. Taylor's arrival, a pretty
good sort of a man, who was lame of a leg, waited upon me, and sat up at
night with me; afterwards Mrs. Taylor, mother, and others waited upon me.
Many friends called upon me, among whom were Richard Ballantyne,
Elizabeth Taylor, several of the Perkins family, and a number of the
brethren from Macedonia and La Harpe. Besides these, many strangers from
Quincy, some of whom expressed indignant feelings against the mob and
sympathy for myself. Brother Alexander Williams called upon me, who
suspected that they had some designs in keeping me there, and stated that
he had, at a given point in some woods, fifty men, and if I would say the
word he would raise other fifty, and fetch me out of there. I thanked him,
but told him I thought there was no need. However, it would seem that I
was in some danger; for Colonel Jones, before referred to, when absent
from me, left two loaded pistols on the table in case of an attack, and
some time afterwards, when I had recovered and was publishing the affair,
a lawyer, Mr. Backman, stated that he had prevented a man by the name of
Jackson, before referred to, from ascending the stairs, who was coming
with a design to murder me, and that now he was sorry he had not let him
do the deed.
There were others also, of whom I heard, that said I ought to be
killed, and they would do it, but that it was too damned cowardly to shoot
a wounded man; and thus, by the chivalry of murderers, I was prevented
from being a second time mutilated or killed. Many of the mob came around
and treated me with apparent respect, and the officers and people
generally looked upon me as a hostage, and feared that my removal would be
the signal for the rising of the `Mormons'.
I do not remember the time that I stayed at Carthage, but I think
three or four days after the murder, when Brother Marks with a carriage,
Brother James Allred with a wagon, Dr. Ells, and a number of others on
horseback, came for the purpose of taking me to Nauvoo. I was very weak at
the time, occasioned by the loss of blood and the great discharge of my
wounds, so when my wife asked me if I could talk I could barely whisper
no. Quite a discussion arose as to the propriety of my removal, the
physicians and people of Carthage protesting that it would be my death,
while my friends were anxious for my removal if possible.
I suppose the former were actuated by the above-named desire to keep
me. Colonel Jones was, I believe, sincere; he had acted as a friend all
the time, and he told Mrs. Taylor she ought to persuade me not to go, for
he did not believe I had strength enough to reach Nauvoo. It was finally
agreed, however, that I should go; but as it was thought that I could not
stand riding in a wagon or carriage, they prepared a litter for me; I was
carried downstairs and put upon it. A number of men assisted to carry me,
some of whom had been engaged in the mob. As soon as I got downstairs, I
felt much better and strengthened, so that I could talk; I suppose the
effect of the fresh air.
When we had got near the outside of the town I remembered some woods
that we had to go through, and telling a person near to call for Dr. Ells,
who was riding a very good horse, I said, `Doctor, I perceive that the
people are getting fatigued with carrying me; a number of `Mormons' live
about two or three miles from here, near our route; will you ride to their
settlement as quick as possible, and have them come and meet us?' He
started off on a gallop immediately. My object in this was to obtain
protection in case of an attack, rather than to obtain help to carry me.
Very soon after the men from Carthage made one excuse after another,
until they had all left, and I felt glad to get rid of them. I found that
the tramping of those carrying me produced violent pain, and a sleigh was
produced and attached to the hind end of Brother James Allred's wagon, a
bed placed upon it, and I propped up on the bed. Mrs. Taylor rode with me,
applying ice water to my wounds. As the sleigh was dragged over the grass
on the prairie, which was quite tall, it moved very easily and gave me
very little pain.
When I got within five or six miles of Nauvoo the brethren commenced
to meet me from the city, and they increased in number as we drew nearer,
until there was a very large company of people of all ages and both sexes,
principally, however, men.
For some time there had been almost incessant rain, so that in many
low places on the prairie it was one to three feet deep in water, and at
such places the brethren whom we met took hold of the sleigh, lifted it,
and carried it over the water; and when we arrived in the neighborhood of
the city, where the roads were excessively muddy and bad, the brethren
tore down the fences, and we passed through the fields.
Never shall I forget the differences of feeling that I experienced
between the place that I had left and the one that I had now arrived at. I
had left a lot of reckless, bloodthirsty murderers, and had come to the
City of the Saints, the people of the living God; friends of truth and
righteousness, thousands of whom stood there with warm, true hearts to
offer their friendship and services, and to welcome my return. It is true
it was a painful scene, and brought sorrowful remembrance to my mind, but
to me it caused a thrill of joy to find myself once more in the bosom of
my friends, and to meet with the cordial welcome of true, honest hearts.
What was very remarkable, I found myself very much better after my arrival
at Nauvoo than I was when I started on my journey, although I had traveled
eighteen miles.
The next day, as some change was wanting, I told Mrs. Taylor that if
she could send to Dr. Richards, he had my purse and watch, and they would
find money in my purse.
Previous to the doctor leaving Carthage, I told him that he had
better take my purse and watch, for I was afraid the people would steal
them. The doctor had taken my pantaloon's pocket, and put the watch in it
with the purse, cut off the pocket, and tied a string around the top; it
was in this position when brought home. My family, however, were not a
little startled to find that my watch had been struck with a ball. I sent
for my vest, and, upon examination, it was found that there was a cut as
if with a knife, in the vest pocket which had contained my watch. In the
pocket the fragments of the glass were found literally ground to powder.
It then occurred to me that a ball had struck me at the time I felt myself
falling out of the window, and that it was this force that threw me
inside, I had often remarked to Mrs. Taylor the singular fact of finding
myself inside the room, when I felt a moment before after being shot, that
I was falling out, and I never could account for it until then; but here
the thing was fully elucidated, and was rendered plain to my mind. I was
indeed falling out, when some villain aimed at my heart. The ball struck
my watch, and forced me back; if I had fallen out I should assuredly have
been killed, if not by the fall, by those around, and this ball, intended
to dispatch me, was turned by an overruling Providence into a messenger of
mercy, and saved my life. I shall never forget the feelings of gratitude
that I then experienced towards my heavenly Father; the whole scene was
vividly portrayed before me, and my heart melted before the Lord. I felt
that the Lord had preserved me by a special act of mercy; that my time had
not yet come, and that I had still a work to perform upon the earth.
[Signed] JOHN TAYLOR.
JOHN TAYLOR'S NOTES "In addition to the above I give the following:
Dr. Bernhisel informed me that Joseph, looking him full in the face, and
as solemn as eternity, said, `I am going as a lamb to the slaughter, but I
am as calm as a summer's morning. I have a conscience void of offense
toward God and man.' I heard him state, in reply to an interrogatory, made
either by myself or some one in my hearing, in relation to the best course
to pursue; `I am not now acting according to my judgment; others must
counsel, and not me, for the present,' or in words to the same effect.
COMMENT ON THE EXPOSITOR AFFAIR The governor's remarks about the
press may be partially correct, so far as the legal technicality was
concerned, and the order of administering law. The proper way would
perhaps have been for the city council to have passed a law in regard to
the removal of nuisances, and then for the municipal court to have ordered
it to be abated on complaint. Be this as it may, it was only a variation
in form, not in fact, for the municipal court formed part of the city
council, and all voted; and, furthermore, some time after the murder,
Governor Ford told me that the press ought to have been removed, but that
it was bad policy to remove it as we did; that if we had only let a mob do
it, instead of using the law, we could have done it without difficulty,
and no one would have been implicated. Thus the governor, who would have
winked at the proceedings of a mob, lent his aid to, or winked at, the
proceedings of mob violence in the assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith
for removing a nuisance according to law, because of an alleged
informality in the legal proceedings or a legal technicality.
I must here state that I do not believe Governor Ford would have
planned the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith; but being a man that courted
popular opinion, he had not the firmness to withstand the mob, even when
that mob were seeking to imbrue their hands in the blood of innocence; he
lent himself to their designs and thus became a partaker of their evil
deeds.
I will illustrate this vexed question with the following official
paper, which appeared in the Deseret News, No. 30.
`Two of the brethren arrived this evening (June 13th, 1844), from
Carthage, and said that about 300 mobbers were assembled there, with the
avowed intention of coming against Nauvoo. Also that Hamilton [the hotel
proprietor] was paying a dollar per bushel for corn to feed their
animals.'
The following was published in the Warsaw Signal Office; I insert it
as a specimen of the unparalleled corruption and diabolical falsehood of
which the human race has become capable in this generation:
`At a mass meeting of the citizens of Hancock county, convened at
Carthage on the 11th day of June, 1844, Mr. Knox was appointed president,
John Doty and Lewis F. Evans, vice presidents, and William Y. Head,
secretary.
`Henry Stephens, Esq. presented the following resolutions, passed at
a meeting of the citizens of Warsaw, and urged the adoption of them as the
sense of this meeting:
PREAMBLE AND RESOLUTIONS `Whereas information has reached us, about
which there can be no question, that the authorities of Nauvoo did
recently pass an ordinance declaring a printing press and newspaper
published by the opponents of the Prophet a nuisance, and in pursuance
thereof did direct the marshal of the city and his adherents to enter by
force the building from whence the paper was issued, and violently (if
necessary) to take possession of the press and printing materials, and
thereafter to burn and destroy the same; and whereas, in pursuance of said
ordinance, the marshal and his adherents, together with a mob of Mormons,
did, after sunset on the evening of the 10th inst., violently enter said
building in a tumultuous manner, burn and destroy the press and other
materials found on the premises;
And whereas Hyrum Smith did, in the presence of the city council and
the citizens of Nauvoo, offer a reward for the destruction of the printing
press and materials of the Warsaw Signal, a newspaper also opposed to his
interest;
And whereas the liberty of the press is one of the cardinal
principles of our government, firmly guaranteed by the several
Constitutions of the states as well as the United States;
And whereas Hyrum Smith has within the last week publicly threatened
the life of one of our valued citizens, Thos. C. Sharp, the editor of the
Signal:
Therefore, be it solemnly Resolved by the citizens of Warsaw in
public meeting assembled,
That we view the recent ordinance of the city of Nauvoo, and the
proceedings thereunder, as an outrage of an alarming character,
revolutionary and tyrannical in its tendency, and being under color of
law, as calculated to subvert and destroy in the minds of the community
all reliance on the law.
Resolved, That as a community we feel anxious, when possible, to
redress our grievances by legal remedies; but the time has now arrived
when the law has ceased to be a protection to our lives and property; a
mob at Nauvoo, under a city ordinance, has violated the highest privilege
in our government, and to seek redress in the ordinary mode would be
utterly ineffectual.
Resolved, That the public threat made in the council of the city not
only to destroy our printing press, but to take the life of its editor, is
sufficient, in connection with the recent outrage, to command the efforts
and the services of every good citizen to put an immediate stop to the
career of the mad Prophet and his demoniac coadjutors. We must not only
defend ourselves from danger, but we must resolutely carry the war into
the enemy's camp. We do therefore declare that we will sustain our press
and the editor at all hazards. That we will take full vengeance---terrible
vengeance, should the lives of any of our citizens be lost in the effort.
That we hold ourselves at all times in readiness to cooperate with our
fellow citizens in this state, Missouri, and Iowa, to
exterminate----UTTERLY EXTERMINATE, the wicked and abominable Mormon
leaders, the authors of our troubles.
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed forthwith to notify
all persons in our township suspected of being the tools of the Prophet to
leave immediately on pain of INSTANT VENGEANCE. And we do recommend the
inhabitants of the adjacent townships to do the same, hereby pledging
ourselves to render all the assistance they may require.
Resolved, That the time, in our opinion, has arrived when the
adherents of Smith as a body, shall be driven from the surrounding
settlements into Nauvoo; that the Prophet and his miscreant adherents
should then be demanded at their hands, and if not surrendered, A WAR OF
EXTERMINATION SHOULD BE WAGED, to the entire destruction, if necessary for
our protection, of his adherents. And we do hereby recommend this
resolution to the consideration of the several townships to the mass
convention to be held at Carthage, hereby pledging ourselves to aid to the
utmost the complete consummation of the object in view, that we may
thereby be utterly relieved of the alarm, anxiety, and trouble to which we
are now subjected.
Resolved, That every citizen arm himself, to be prepared to sustain
the resolutions herein contained.
Mr. Roosevelt rose and made a brief but eloquent speech, and called
upon the citizens throughout the country to render efficient aid in
carrying out the spirit of the resolutions. Mr. Roosevelt then moved that
a committee of seven be appointed by the chair to draft resolutions
expressive of our action in future.
Mr. Catlin moved to amend the motion of Mr. Roosevelt so that the
committee should consist of one from each precinct; which motion as
amended, was adopted.
The chair then appointed the following as said committee: Colonel
Levi Williams, Rocky Run precinct; Joel Catlin, Augusta; Samuel Williams,
Carthage; Elisha Worrell, Chili; Captain Maddison, St.
Mary's; John M. Ferris, Fountain Green; James Rice, Pilot Grove; John
Carns, Bear Creek; C. L. Higbee, Nauvoo; George Robinson, La Harpe, and
George Rockwell, Warsaw.
On motion of Mr. Sympson, Walter Bagby, Esq. was requested to address
the meeting during the absence of the committee. He spoke long and
eloquently upon the cause of our grievances, and expressed his belief that
the time was now at hand when we were individually and collectively called
upon to repel the innovations upon our liberties, and suggested that
points be designated as places of encampment at which to rendezvous our
forces, that we may be ready, when called upon, for efficient action.
Dr. Barnes, one of the persons who went with the officers to Nauvoo
for the purpose of arresting the rioters, having just arrived, came into
the meeting, and reported the result of their proceedings, which was, that
the persons charged in the writs were duly arrested, but taken from the
officer's hands on a writ of habeas corpus from the municipal court and
discharged, and the following potent words entered upon the
records---HONORABLY DISCHARGED.
On motion of O. C. Skinner, Esq. a vote of thanks was tendered to Dr.
Barnes for volunteering his services in executing said writs.
Francis M. Higbee was now loudly called for. He stated his personal
knowledge of the Mormons from their earliest history, throughout their
hellish career in Missouri and this state, which had been characterized by
the darkest and most diabolical deeds which had ever disgraced humanity.
The committee appointed to draft resolutions brought in the following
report, which after some considerable discussion, was unanimously adopted:
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE `Whereas the officer charged with the
execution of a writ against Joseph Smith and others, for riot in the
county of Hancock, which said writ said officer has served upon said Smith
and others; and whereas said Smith and others refuse to obey the mandate
of said writ; and whereas, in the opinion of this meeting, it is
impossible for the said officer to raise a posse of sufficient strength to
execute said writ; and whereas it is the opinion of this meeting that the
riot is still progressing, and that violence is meditated and determined
on, it is the opinion of this meeting that the circumstances of the case
require the interposition of executive power: Therefore,
`Resolved, That a deputation of two discreet men be sent to
Springfield to solicit such interposition.
`2d. Resolved, That a said deputation be furnished with a certified
copy of the resolution, and be authorized to obtain evidence by affidavit
and otherwise in regard to the violence which has already been committed
and is still farther meditated.'
Dr. Evans here rose and expressed his wish that the above resolutions
would not retard our operations, but that we would each one arm and equip
ourselves forthwith.
The resolutions passed at Warsaw were again read by Dr. Barnes, and
passed by acclamation.
On motion of A. Sympson, Esq., the suggestion of Mr. Bagby appointing
places of encampment, was adopted to wit: Warsaw, Carthage, Green Plains,
Spilman's Landing, Chili, and La Harpe.
On motion, O. C. Skinner and Walter Bagby, Esqrs. were appointed a
committee to bear the resolutions adopted by this meeting to his
excellency the governor, requiring his executive interposition.
On motion of J. H. Sherman, a Central Corresponding Committee was
appointed.
Ordered, That J. H. Sherman, H. T. Wilson, Chauncey Robinson, Wm. S.
Freeman, Thomas Morrison, F. M. Higbee, Lyman Prentiss, and Stephen H.
Tyler be said committee.
On motion of George Rockwell,
Resolved, That constables in the different precincts hold themselves
in readiness to obey the officer in possession of the writs, whenever
called upon, in summoning the posse.
On motion, the meeting adjourned. JOHN KNOX, President. JOHN DOTY
LEWIS F. EVANS Vice Presidents. W. Y. Head, Secretary.'
The following will conclude the `Expositor Question;
JOSEPH SMITH'S ACCOUNT OF THE EXPOSITOR FAIR `Nauvoo, June 14th,
1844. `Sir,---I write you this morning briefly to inform you of the facts
relative to the removal of the press and fixtures of the Nauvoo Expositor
as a nuisance.
`The 8th and 10th instant were spent by the city council of Nauvoo in
receiving testimony concerning the character of the Expositor, and the
character and designs of the proprietors.
`In the investigation it appeared evident to the council that the
proprietors were a set of unprincipled, lawless debauches, counterfeiters,
bogus-makers, gamblers, peace-disturbers, and that the grand object of
said proprietors was to destroy our constitutional rights and chartered
privileges; to overthrow all good and wholesome regulations in society; to
strengthen themselves against the municipality; to fortify themselves
against the church of which I am a member, and destroy all our religious
rights and privileges by libels, slanders, falsehoods, perjury, etc. and
sticking at no corruption to accomplish their hellish purposes; and that
said paper of itself was libelous of the deepest dye.
and very injurious as a vehicle of defamation, tending to corrupt the
morals, and disturb the peace, tranquility, and happiness of the whole
community, and especially that of Nauvoo.
`After a long and patient investigation of the character of the
Expositor, and the characters and designs of its proprietors, the
Constitution, the Charter (see Addenda to Nauvoo Charter from the
Springfield Charter, sec, 7), and all the best authorities on the subject
(see Blackstone, iii, 5, and n, etc., etc.), the city council decided that
it was necessary for the `peace, benefit, good order, and regulations' of
said city, `and for the protection of the property', and for `the
happiness and prosperity of the citizens of Nauvoo', that said Expositor
should be removed; and declaring said Expositor a nuisance, ordered the
mayor to cause them to be removed without delay, which order was committed
to the marshal by due process, and by him executed the same day, by
removing the paper, press, and fixtures into the streets, and burning the
same; all which was done without riot, noise, tumult, or confusion, as has
already been proved before the municipality of the city; and the
particulars of the whole transaction may be expected in our next Nauvoo
Neighbor.
`I send you this hasty sketch that your excellency may be aware of
the lying reports that are now being circulated by our enemies, that there
has been a `mob at Nauvoo', and `blood and thunder', and `swearing that
two men were killed', etc. etc., as we hear from abroad, are false---false
as satan himself could invent, and that nothing has been transacted here
but what has been in perfect accordance with the strictest principles of
law and good order on the part of the authorities of this city; and if
your excellency is not satisfied, and shall not be satisfied, after
reading the whole proceedings, which will be forthcoming soon, and shall
demand an investigation of our municipality before Judge Pope, or any
legal tribunal at the Capitol, you have only to write your wishes, and we
will be forthcoming; we will not trouble you to file a writ, or send an
officer for us.
`I remain, as ever, a friend to truth, good order, and your
excellency's humble servant, [Signed] JOSEPH SMITH. `His Excellency Thomas
Ford.'"
IV
HISTORIANS' SECOND COMPILATION OF HISTORICAL ITEMS OF CHURCH
HISTORY, FROM 22ND OF JUNE, 1844, TO 8TH OF AUGUST, 1844.
Explanation
PART IV is a second compilation following Period I of this History,
made by the Church Historians George A. Smith and Wilford Woodruff from
the Journals of Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff and others and was
published in the Millennial Star, 1862, Vol. xxiv, pp. 598-792; and 1863,
Vol. xxv, pp. 6-280. See also Deseret News, Vol. vii, Dec. 9, 1857 to Jan.
20, 1858. This will comprise chapters xi to xix inclusive.
CHAPTER XI
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS APART FROM THE MAJOR FACTS OF THE MARTYRDOM
OF THE PROPHET AND PATRIARCH FROM JUNE 22, 1844, TO JUNE 29, 1844.
"Saturday, June 22, 1844.----In the evening Major- General Dunham
issued orders to all the guards and sentries on the road to La Harpe, to
let persons pass and repass, until further orders, except they discover
companies of men, when they must report the same to headquarters
immediately.
A conference was held at Eagle, Benton county, Tennessee, Elder A. O.
Smoot presiding, during which a branch was organized of seventeen members.
One elder, one priest and one teacher were ordained.
Sunday, 23.----At 5 a. m., (at Nauvoo) A. P. Rockwood and John Scott
asked advice what to do with the cannon, etc. William Clayton got the
public records together and buried them. 5 p. m.----Captain Anderson, of
the steamer Osprey, conversed with Joseph, saying the mob at Warsaw
threatened firing into his vessel.
President Brigham Young attended meeting at Lowell, Massachusetts.
Elder Heber C. Kimball preached at Wilmington, Delaware, in the
forenoon, to an attentive congregation: he had a chill after he got
through, Elder Lyman Wight spoke in the afternoon.
A conference was held at Kirtland, and was addressed by Elder Lorenzo
Snow and others. Twelve persons were baptized and confirmed, and eight
ordained elders.
Monday, 24.----- AFFIDAVIT OF J. R. WAKEFIELD `Territory of Iowa,
Henry County. Dr. J. R. Wakefield being duly sworn, deposeth and sayeth,
that on the 10th of June he, in company with two others, went on the hill
in the city of Nauvoo, and in the neighborhood of the printing press of
the Nauvoo Expositor, when a company of men approached, headed by the
marshal of the city, Mr. Greene, some armed, but not many. After marching
in front of the printing office, the marshal demanded the keys of the
office, in behalf of the mayor and municipal court of Nauvoo, to destroy
the press, type and appurtenances of said press, and burn them in the
street.
Mr. Higbee replied, in behalf of the whole of the editors of said
newspaper. that he would not give up the key---that he set the court and
city at defiance, and should hold them and the marshal responsible for
their acts in this affair.
Accordingly orders were given to an officer of the company to
forcibly take from the building the press, and destroy it according to
order. It was done without any noise, or confusion, shouting, or riotous
proceedings, and further deponent saith not. [Signed] J. R. WAKEFIELD.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 24th day of June, 1844. A.
McKlNNEY, J. P.
Tuesday, 25.----Elder Cahoon returned from Carthage for some papers,
which were sent out by A. P. Rockwood.
Orrin P. Rockwell met F. M. Higbee about 4 p. m. and accused him of
seeking Joseph's life. Higbee made use of some very insulting language in
reply, when a scuffle ensued, during which a letter dropped out of
Higbee's hat, which stated that there were seventy of the mob ready in
Iowa to come upon Nauvoo tonight.
It is currently reported that the mob intend to make a rush on the
jail tonight.
A strong guard placed in and round the city.
About 9 p. m. it began to rain very heavily.
Wednesday, 26.---- 8 a. m., Captain Singleton arrived, with about
sixty mounted militia, to protect the city in case a mob should come
against it. He was authorized to take command of the police, and to use
such measures as he might consider necessary.
He read his orders from the governor, and wanted to know if our men
would obey his orders, when the brethren responded `yes', whereupon
notification was sent to the police to meet at 6 p. m., in the Masonic
Hall. He further reported that Dr. Foster had given him information at
Carthage, where he would find three presses in Nauvoo, for making bogus
money, and said that he wanted to get hold of them,
6 p. m.----The police assembled in the Seventies' Hall, and entered
into a temporary organization to act under Captain Singleton. Many of the
regular police being officers of the Legion, and on active service, their
places were filled for the time,
At midnight Captain Singleton sent a notification to the
major-general's quarters, that he wanted the Nauvoo Legion to be in
readiness for parade at an hour's notice, when notifications were sent to
the colonels of the several regiments accordingly.
Thursday, 27.----About 9 a. m., John P. Greene arrived in Nauvoo with
subpoenas for witnesses for the expected trial on Saturday the 29th
instant.
At 10 a. m., orders were received from Captain Singleton, to call out
that portion of the Nauvoo Legion resident within the limits of the city,
for review at noon. General Dunham immediately issued similar orders to
the commandants.
At noon about two-thirds of the Legion turned out to parade, nearly
all of whom were well armed, although all the state arms had been taken
away, which caused Captain Singleton and his company to express their
astonishment. The captain made a remark to the effect that it would not do
to come against such a force as this. The Legion was soon dismissed, on
account of a messenger from the governor reporting that all the troops
were dismissed, except a small escort which was with him.
5 p. m.----Governor Ford, with about fifty men arrived at the
Mansion, and gave notice that he would shortly address the citizens. In
about half an hour he ascended the frame of a building opposite the
Mansion, and addressed the people.
WHEREABOUTS OF THE TWELVE---THEIR DEPRESSION OF SPIRIT We here insert
the location of the Twelve Apostles on this memorable day:----
President Brigham Young and Elder Wilford Woodruff spent a portion of
the day together in the city of Boston, and were sitting together in the
railway depot at the time of the massacre of the Prophets; they felt very
sorrowful, and depressed in spirits, without knowing the cause.
Elders Heber C. Kimball and Lyman Wight traveled from Philadelphia to
New York by railway and steamboat. Elder Kimball felt very mournful as
though he had lost some friend, and knew not the cause.
Elder Orson Hyde was in the hall occupied by the saints in Boston,
examining maps, and designating or pointing out each man's district or
field of labor, in company with Elders Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff and
others, a part of the day. He felt very heavy and sorrowful in spirit, and
knew not the cause, but felt no heart to look on the maps. He retired to
the further end of the hall alone, and walked the floor; tears ran down
his face * * * . He never felt so before, and knew no reason why he should
feel so then.
Elder Parley P. Pratt was on the canal boat between Utica and
Buffalo, N. Y., on his return to Nauvoo, and was much depressed in spirit;
his brother William Pratt came on board of the same boat, and Parley asked
him if he had any books or pamphlets containing the gospel of Christ, or
the words of life, if so, to put them under lock and key, for the people
are not worthy of them for, said Parley, `I feel that the spirit of murder
is in the hearts of the people through the land.'
Elders Willard Richards and John Taylor were the only two of the
Quorum of the Twelve who were not on missions, and the only two men who
were with the martyrs when they fell and sealed their testimony with their
blood.
Elder George A, Smith rode with Elder Crandall Dunn, from Napoleon,
to Elder Noah Willis Bartholemew's, near Jacksonburg, Jackson county,
Michigan, and felt unusually cast down and depressed in spirits. About
five o'clock he repaired to an oak grove, and called upon the Lord,
endeavoring to break the spell of horror which had dominion over his mind.
He remained there a long time without finding any relief, and then went
back to Brother Bartholomew's, and went to bed with Elder Crandall Dunn;
he could not sleep, but spent the night in a series of miserable thoughts
and reflections. Once it seemed to him that some fiend whispered in his
ear, `Joseph and Hyrum are dead; ain't you glad of it?'
Elder Amasa Lyman was in the city of Cincinnati, and felt that
depression of spirit mentioned by his brethren.
Friday, 28.----News arrived in Nauvoo at daylight, that Joseph and
Hyrum were upon an illegal mittimus by Robert F. Smith, justice of the
peace and captain of the company stationed at the jail.
General Deming issued the following proclamation:
PROCLAMATION OF GENERAL DEMING TO THE PEOPLE OF HANCOCK COUNTY
`Headquarters, June 28, 1844. 4 o'clock, a. m. To the Citizens of Carthage
and Hancock County: In pursuance of an order from Governor Ford,
instructing me to the exercise of such discretionary powers as I may deem
necessary for the preservation of the public safety, and the lives and
property of our citizens; I hereby invite all citizens to remain at their
several homes in Hancock county and cooperate with me in establishing
tranquility and safety throughout the county.
The most efficient means have been put in requisition for
concentrating the military force of the neighboring counties at Carthage,
and in twelve hours there will be a sufficient force for the protection of
every citizen in the county.
I confidently believe there is no just apprehension of an attack upon
any place by the Mormon citizens of our county. And I hereby strictly
command all citizens of Hancock county to abstain from violence towards
the Mormon population, under penalty of the severest inflictions of
military law, and act in no case only on the defensive.
The corpses of the murdered men will be forthwith removed to Nauvoo,
under an escort from headquarters.
Given under my hand this 28th June, 1844, 4 o'clock, a. m. [Signed]
M. R. DEMING, Brigadier-General. 4th Brigade and 5th Division
It is hoped and expected that the governor will be at headquarters in
a few hours,'
At 7 1/2 a. m., General Dunham issued orders for the whole of the
Legion to meet on the parade ground, east of the Temple, at 10 a. m. They
met accordingly, when addresses were delivered, and exhortations given to
the saints to keep quiet, and not to let their violently outraged feelings
get the better of them.
About noon a council of officers of the Legion was held, and from
thence they went to meet the sad procession that accompanied the bodies of
the murdered Prophet and Patriarch.
At 2 1/2 p. m., the corpses arrived at Mulholland Street, on two
wagons, guarded by few men from Carthage, and nearly all the citizens
collected together and followed the bodies to the Mansion, where the
multitude were addressed by Dr. Richards, W. W. Phelps, and Messrs. Woods
and Reid, who exhorted the people to be peaceable and calm and use no
threats,
NAMES OF THE PROPHET'S BODYGUARD We here insert the names of Joseph's
bodyguard:---- Alpheus Cutler, capt. John Snyder, Amos C. Hodge, Christian
Kreymer, James Allred, Lewis D. Wilson, Thomas Grover, William Marks,
Reynolds Cahoon, James Emmet, Shadrach Roundy, John S. Butler, Samuel H.
Smith, Edward Hunter, herald and armor bearer.
The following are the names of the martial band:----
NAMES OF THE NAUVOO LEGION BAND E. P. Duzette, major, L. W. Hancock,
fife major, Dimick B. Huntington, drum major, Elisha Everett, leader,
William Carter, ------------ Lyon, Dominicus Carter, Aroet Hale, James W.
Cummings, Abram Day, Joseph Richards, L. W. Hardy, Geo. W. Taggart,
Willard Smith, Wm. D. Huntington, Stephen Wilber, Jesse Earl, Lewis Hardy,
J. M. King, James Leithead, H. B. Jacobs, J. M, Frink, A. J. Clothier,
Eleazer King, Sylvester Duzette, ------------ Sprague.
In the afternoon Elders Heber C. Kimball, Lyman Wight, William Smith
and wife, went by railway cars and steamboat to Boston.
Saturday, 29.----The Legion was out all last night, expecting a mob
to come.
The following is from a letter addressed to President Joseph Smith,
from Elders Lyman Wight and Heber C. Kimball:----
LETTER FROM ELDERS LYMAN WIGHT AND HEBER C. KIMBALL TO JOSEPH SMITH
`Philadelphia, Pa., June 19, 1844. To my well beloved brother and fellow
prisoner, President Joseph Smith--- I take this opportunity of giving you
an abridged history of my transactions, together with Brother Heber C.
Kimball, my fellow traveler. We left Nauvoo the 21st day of May, amidst
the acclamations of three cheers from the shore, `Joseph Smith, the next
President of the United States!'
We passed smoothly down the river; there were 165 passengers on board
the boat Osprey. I was called upon to deliver a political address, and to
show what right Joseph Smith had to the presidential chair, which I did to
the entire satisfaction of nearly all the passengers on board, not
forgetting at the same time to show that the other candidates had
disqualified themselves to all the right and title, by acts of meanness.
Whilst speaking of their mean acts I was frequently interrupted with
loud laughing and clapping of hands, by way of approbation. A vote being
taken on the presidential question, Joseph Smith received a large majority
over all the other candidates.
We reached St. Louis on the 22nd at 10 a. m. Here Brothers Young and
Kimball called the church together and instructed them spiritually and
politically. We learned that the church at St. Louis numbered nearly 700
souls.
On the 23rd we left St. Louis on board the boat Louis Phillippe, at
half past 12 o'clock, with about 200 passengers on board; many of the same
that were on the Osprey, together with many new passengers.
There were at first some little prejudices existing, but President
Brigham Young, being called upon, delivered a discourse upon the
principles of our doctrine, which entirely allayed the prejudices.
Next evening Brother William Smith was called upon to deliver an
address, which he did in the power and demonstration of the spirit, and we
were afterwards looked upon as their superiors.
On the 26th we reached Cincinnati, at 6 o'clock, p. m. Elders Young
and Kimball went to visit the church in that city, whilst I changed our
luggage on board the boat Neptune for Pittsburgh. All the passengers on
board the Louis Phillippe being bound for Pittsburgh, came with us.
At 8 a. m. on the 27th, we held a conference with the elders in
Cincinnati. I addressed them on the subject of politics, and perseverance
in duty, and the great necessity of reform in government. I was followed
by Brothers Kimball and Young on the same subjects.
We then instructed them to have 2,000 copies of your views on the
Powers and Policy of the Government printed, and for the elders to scatter
them with the velocity of lightning and the voice of thunder.
I had nearly forgotten to mention an important occurrence on board of
the Louis Phillippe, with a Mr. David Guard, of Lawrenceburgh, Indiana: he
is worth from $200,000 to $300,000; he emigrated to Cincinnati when there
were but three log cabins in that place. He gave me his views on politics,
which completely corresponded with yours. I then gave him two copies of
your `Views'. He was highly pleased with them, and pledged his word he
would have them published in both the Lawrenceburgh papers, as they were
both published under his roof, and if they did not comply with so
reasonable a request, they (the editors) would have to seek shelter
elsewhere.
He also stated that Joseph Smith was the first man since the days of
Washington and Jefferson, who had been frank and honest enough to give his
views to the people before being elected; and said, that he would go his
whole length for such a man, and that if you were not elected this time,
you would be the next: let this be an ensample of numerous other cases, as
you know it would be too irksome to write them all, or read them.
To return to the subject, at ten o'clock this morning (the 27th), we
left for Pittsburgh with an addition of passengers. On this boat I was
called upon to deliver an address showing the utility of the Book of
Mormon, and the present situation of the world, which I did, and by this
time we had a complete victory over both priests and people. On this boat
a large majority of votes were given for yourself for president.
We arrived at Pittsburgh on the 30th at 6 p. m. Here we left
President Brigham Young. Brothers William Smith, Heber C. Kimball and
myself left Pittsburgh on the 31st of May, at 10 o'clock, from thence by
steamer, stage and railway, we passed over hills and dales, arriving at
Washington city [D. C.] on the 2nd of June, preaching to, and thorning
everybody with politics that came in our way.
Thus after a journey of thirteen days we arrived in the great
metropolis of the United States; which, by-the-by, with the exception of
the Pennsylvania Avenue, more resembles the Methodist slough of despond
than any thing like a decent city.
At this time, being near the close of the session, [congress] it was
filled up with demagogues, jackleg lawyers and blackleg gamblers, and
everything else but intelligence. The senators and representatives
generally rise at 8 o'clock in the morning, prepare themselves for
business about 11 o'clock, commonly return at 3 and 4 in the afternoon.
From 6 till 9 is the only time we could do any business whatever, hence we
prepared and watched our opportunity, and did all the business we could
betwixt those hours, for ten days, pleading the cause of the poor and
oppressed.
We have got a petition signed, with our names attached, in behalf of
the church, asking for a remuneration for our losses and not for our
rights, or redress, for they would not receive such a petition from us. It
was thought by Judge Semple, Judge Douglas, General [David R.] Atchison
and Major Hughs, that our petition would carry if it was not too late in
the season. Judge Semple handed it to the chairman of the Committee on
Public Lands. He said he would do the best he could for us. General
Atchison is of the opinion if we could sue the state of Missouri for
redress of grievances, that there was virtue enough in the state to answer
our demands, `for', said he, `they are ashamed of their conduct.' Douglas
and Semple are of the same opinion.
Brother Kimball and myself spared no pains during our stay at
Washington: we found six members of the church, and many attentive
hearers. We purpose sending a steady, faithful elder, who we think can
build up a large church. We found our time too limited to meet the
conferences and transact our business, to tarry longer at present, but
shall return, if we find it necessary, after the Baltimore Convention; for
we will never leave them, nor forsake them, nor return home, while we
think there is a stone unturned, or a conscience that is not harrowed up
by our continued preaching,
On the 11th instant we left Washington, and arrived at Brother
Saunders', Wilmington, Delaware, at 5 o'clock the same evening, distance
114 miles. We can assure you we found everything right in this place, and
adjacent to it, We found about 100 members, and held two meetings with
them, appointing a conference on the 22nd and 23rd inst.
On the 13th at 2 p. m., we left this place for Philadelphia, and
arrived at Brother William Smith's at 5 p. m. Brother Kimball being
exposed, had a slight attack of the chills and fever. Since that time we
have preached alternately.
The church here numbers nearly 200, out of which number many have
commenced sickening, and were growing faint at the many false reports in
circulation, fearing that the Prophet had fallen and the Twelve were in
transgression, but they have since learned that the Prophet is right, and
that the Twelve are with him, and they are beginning to revive; they have
stood six tremendous shocks, and I think if they stand the seventh, which
is to come tomorrow evening they will survive.
We shall call on them to know whether they intend to gather with the
living and sustain the cause of God by the mouth of his Prophets and
Apostles, or die in Philadelphia. If they should choose the latter, we
shall attend to the funeral ceremonies, and leave them to rest with the
dead, and we will go on our way among the living.
If they should choose the former, we shall expect a glorious work in
this place,
We shall leave here on the 21st for Wilmington, to attend conference,
we shall then return to this place, and from here to New York and Boston,
to meet the conferences in those cities, and so continue place to place
until we shall have accomplished the mission appointed Unto us.
CHAPTER XII
MOVEMENTS IN HANCOCK COUNTY, CARTHAGE, NAUVOO, WARSAW AND QUINCY,
FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF PEACE FOLLOWING THE MARTYRDOM: LIST OF THE
NAMES OF THOSE WHO WERE IN THE MOB ASSEMBLED TO SLAY THE PROPHET
"Saturday, June 29th, 1844.----About noon, General H. Swazey, of
Iowa, called at Nauvoo and offered assistance to the people.
The following article from Governor Ford, was published in the Times
and Seasons:----
GOVERNOR FORD TO THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS `I desire to
make a brief, but true statement of the recent disgraceful affair at
Carthage, in regard to the Smiths, so far as circumstances have come to my
knowledge.
The Smiths, Joseph and Hyrum, have been assassinated in Jail, by whom
it is not known, but will be ascertained. I pledged myself for their
safety, and upon the assurance of that pledge they surrendered as
prisoners. The Mormons surrendered the public arms in their possession,
and the Nauvoo Legion submitted to the command of Captain Singleton, of
Brown county, deputed for that purpose by me.
All these things were required to satisfy the old citizens of Hancock
that the Mormons were peaceably disposed, and to allay Jealousy and
excitement in their minds.
It appears, however, that the compliance of the Mormons with every
requisition made upon them, failed of that purpose. The pledge of security
to the Smiths was not given upon my individual responsibility. Before I
gave it, I obtained a pledge of honor by a unanimous vote from the
officers and men under my command, to sustain me in performing it. If the
assassination of the Smiths was committed by any portion of these, they
have added treachery to murder, and have done all they could to disgrace
the state, and sully the public honor.
On the morning of the day the deed was committed, we had proposed to
march the army under my command into Nauvoo. I had, however, discovered on
the evening before, that nothing but utter destruction of the city would
satisfy a portion of the troops; and that if we marched into the city,
pretexts would not be wanting for commencing hostilities. The Mormons had
done everything required, or which ought to have been required of them.
Offensive operations on our part would have been as unjust and disgraceful
as they would have been impolitic in the present critical season of the
year, the harvest and the crops, For these reasons I decided, in a council
of officers to disband the army, except three companies, two of which were
reserved as a guard for the jail.
With the other company I marched into Nauvoo, to address the
inhabitants there, and tell them what they might expect in case they
designedly or imprudently provoked a war. I performed this duty as I think
plainly and emphatically, and then set out to return to Carthage.
When I had marched about three miles, a messenger informed me of the
occurrences at Carthage. I hastened on to that place. The guard, it is
said, did their duty, but were overpowered. Many of the inhabitants of
Carthage had fled with their families. Others were preparing to go. I
apprehended danger to the settlements from the sudden fury and passion of
the Mormons, and sanctioned their movements in this respect.
General Deming volunteered to remain with a few troops to observe the
progress of events, to defend property against small numbers, and with
orders to retreat if menaced by a superior force. I decided to proceed
immediately to Quincy, to prepare a force sufficient to suppress
disorders, in case it should ensue from the foregoing transactions, or
from any other cause, I have hopes that the Mormons will make no further
difficulties. In this I may be mistaken. The other party may not be
satisfied. They may recommence aggression.
I am determined to preserve the peace against all breakers of the
same, at all hazards. I think present circumstances warrant the precaution
of having a competent force at my disposal, in readiness to march at a
moment's warning. My position at Quincy will enable me to get the earliest
intelligence, and to communicate orders with great celerity.
I have decided to issue the following general orders:
GOVERNOR FORD'S GENERAL ORDERS TO THE MILITIA IN THE WESTERN COUNTIES
OF ILLINOIS `Headquarters, Quincy, June 29, 1844. It is ordered that the
commandants of regiments in the counties of Adams, Marquette, Pike, Brown,
Schuyler, Morgan, Scott, Cass, Fulton and McDonough, and the regiments
composing General Stapp's brigade, will call their respective regiments
and battalions together immediately upon the receipt of this order, and
proceed by voluntary enlistment to enroll as many men as can be armed in
their respective regiments. They will make arrangements for a campaign of
twelve days, and will provide themselves with arms, ammunition and
provisions accordingly, and hold themselves in readiness immediately to
march upon the receipt of further orders.
The independent companies of riflemen, infantry, cavalry, and
artillery in the above-named counties, and in the county of Sangamon will
hold themselves in readiness in like manner. [Signed] Thomas Ford,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief.'
Saturday, 29, 1 p. m.----Mayor Wood and ex-Mayor Conyers, from
Quincy, arrived from the governor's headquarters, and said 244 troops from
Quincy had arrived in Warsaw to protect the innocent, and they had come to
ascertain the feelings of the people, and adopt measures to allay
excitement.
We copy the following letter from Sheriff J. B. Backenstos:----
ROLL OF CARTHAGE GREYS AND OFFICERS JUNE 27th, A. D, 1844 Robert F.
Smith, Captain. F. A. Worrell, S. O. Williams, Lieutenants. M. Barnes,
Jun.,
Guard at the Jail, June 27, 1844. F. A. Worrell, officer of the
guard. Joseph Hawley, lives in Carthage, Illinois. Franklin Rhodes.
Anthony Barkman, lives in Carthage, Illinois. William Baldwin. Levi
Street, lives near Mendon, Adams county, Illinois. Clabourn Wilson, lives
in Carthage, Illinois.
Balance of [Company of] Greys. Edwin Baldwin, lives near Carthage,
Ill. James D. Barnes, " " Frederick Loring, in " Leyrand Doolittle, "
"
Marvin Hamilton, lives in Carthage, Ill. Ebenezer Rand, " " John W.
Maith, " " Thomas Griffith, " " Lewis C. Stevenson, " " Noah M.
Reckard, " " Eli H. Williams, " " H. T. Wilson, " " Albert Thompson,
" " Walter Bagby, left the country, gone to Louisiana, and died. George
C. Waggoner, lives 2 1/2 miles north of Carthage. Crocket Wilson, lives 8
miles east of Carthage. Thomas J. Dale, 5 " " Richard Dale, 5 " "
The Carthage Greys never numbered more than about thirty, rank and
file; during the June mob war, several joined for the time only, who
reside at other places, and whose names are unknown to me, The Carthage
Greys were nearly to a man parties in the June massacre.
Green Plains. Captain Weir's company of about sixty men.
Warsaw. Captain J. C. Davis' company of about sixty men.
Captain Wm. N. Grover's company of about sixty men.
Captain Mark Aldrich's company of about sixty men, comprising the
entire settlement in and about Warsaw and Green Plains, with the exception
of the Walkers, Gillhams, Paytons, Bledsors, Gallahers, Byrrs, Kimballs,
Worthens, Summervilles, and Bedells, and the Mormon families who resided
in that part of the county at that time.
Those active in the massacre of Carthage---supplied by Sheriff J. B.
Backenstos
The leaders of the Hancock mob, and those who took an active part in
the massacre of Joseph and Hyrum Smith are---
Thomas C. Sharp, Warsaw Signal, Illinois, editor. Colonel Levi
Williams, Green Plains, Illinois, farmer. William N. Grover, Warsaw,
Illinois, lawyer. Jacob C, Davis, Warsaw, Illinois, lawyer. Mark Aldrich,
Warsaw, Illinois, no business. Henry Stephens, Warsaw, Illinois, lawyer.
George Rockwell. Warsaw, Illinois, druggist.
James H. Wood, Warsaw, Illinois, blacksmith. Calvin Cole, Warsaw,
Illinois, tavernkeeper. William B. Chipley, Warsaw, Illinois, doctor.
------------- Hays, Warsaw, Illinois, doctor. J. D, Mellen, Warsaw,
Illinois, merchant. E. W. Gould, Warsaw, Illinois, merchant. Samuel
Fleming, Warsaw, Illinois, constable. John Montague, Warsaw, Illinois, no
business. Jas. Gregg, Warsaw, Illinois, no business. J. C. Elliot, Warsaw,
Illinois, no business. Lyman Prentiss, Warsaw, Illinois, no business. D.
W. Matthews, now St. Louis, Missouri, merchant. J. B. Matthews, now St.
Louis, Missouri, merchant. Trueman Hosford, Warsaw, Illinois, farmer. Four
of the Chittendens, Warsaw, Illinois, different occupations. J. W. Athey,
Warsaw, Illinois, no business. Onias C, Skinner, now of Quincy, Illinois,
lawyer. Calvin A. Warren, Quincy, Illinois, lawyer. George W. Thatcher,
Carthage, Illinois, county clerk. James W. Brattle, Carthage, Illinois,
land shark. Alexander Sympson, Carthage, Illinois, land shark. Jason H.
Sherman, Carthage, Illinois, lawyer. Michael Reckard, one-half mile west
of Carthage, Illinois, farmer. Thomas Morrison, Carthage, Illinois,
lawyer. E. S. Freeman, Carthage, Illinois, blacksmith. Thomas L. Barnes,
Carthage, Illinois, quack doctor. John Wilson, Carthage, Illinois,
tavernkeeper. Edward Jones, 5 miles north of Carthage, farmer. Captain
James E. Dunn, Augusta, Illinois, tavernkeeper. Joel Catlin, Augusta,
Illinois, farmer, etc. William D. Abernethy, Augusta, Illinois, farmer,
etc. Erastus Austin, constable, etc. --------------- Austin, loafer.
Reuben Graves, St. Mary's, Illinois, farmer. Henry Garnett, St. Mary's,
Illinois, farmer. F. J. Bartlett, St. Mary's, Illinois, miller. Valentine
Wilson, St. Mary's, Illinois, farmer. Sylvester M. Bartlett, editor of the
Quincy Whig. Major W. B. Warren, a damned villain. Colonel -----------
Gettis, Fountain Green, Illinois, farmer. Matthews McClaughny, Fountain
Green, Illinois, farmer. Nickerson Wright, Fountain Green, Illinois,
farmer. John McAuley, Camp Creek Precinct, Illinois, one of the worst
merchants in Hancock. William H. Rollason, Pontusuc, Illinois. John M.
Finch, Pontusuc, Illinois. Francis M. Higbee, Pontusuc, Illinois.
------------- Douglass, Pontusuc, Illinois, schoolmaster. George
Backman, one of the Durfee murderers. ----------- Moss or Morse, one of
the Durfee murderers. Jacob Beck, one of the Durfee murderers.
Backman lives in Carthage, Moss or Morse, and Jacob Beck have left
the country, but expect to return.
The foregoing is a pretty large list; there are others of the smaller
fry which I deem unworthy of notice, inasmuch as they were led on through
the influence of the leaders, and whiskey. I most cheerfully give you any
information in my power in reference to this matter; the only thing that I
regret about is. that these things I am fearful will be put off so long
that I will not live to see or hear of the awful vengeance which will in
the end overtake the Hancock assassins. I have long been of the opinion
that forbearance is no longer a virtue, let the guilty be made to answer
for their crimes. Let justice be done, and all will be well.
The bloodhounds are still determined on taking my life; I can hear
from them every once in a while. 1 will have to be exceedingly careful
this summer, or they will have my scalp. They still act upon the principle
that had it not been for me in September last, Worrell and McBradney would
not have been killed, and the city of Nauvoo burned to the ground. They
want to hold me responsible for everything that was done to put them down
in their mob doings last year.
In reference to my correspondence with the governor, I will say that
I received but two letters from him during the difficulty, neither of
which were received until after the arrival of General Hardin and the
[state] government troops.
In my communications to Governor Ford, in relation to the riots in
Hancock county, I made but one request of him, and that was, that no
troops ought to be brought into Hancock county; that I had sufficient
power within the limits of the county to suppress any further riots, and
prevent any more burning.
I am certain that the letters which I received from the governor were
either left in your hands, or in the hands of some one in your office at
Nauvoo; at least I have not got them now. I recollect that you desired to
get them for future use, and am sorry that I cannot forward them to you.
You will find in my Proclamations the historical part of the last mob war
in Hancock.'
The following list is from the pen of Dr. Willard Richards:----
LIST OF THE MOB AT CARTHAGE ACCORDING TO WILLARD RICHARDS `William
Law, Wm. A. Rollason, Wilson Law, Wm. H. J. Marr, Robert D. Foster, S. M.
Marr, Charles A. Foster, Sylvester Emmons, Francis M. Higbee, Alexander
Sympson, Chauncey L. Higbee, John Eagle, Joseph H. Jackson, Henry O.
Norton, John M. Finch, Augustine Spencer.
The foregoing have been aided and abetted by---Charles Ivins and
family, P. T. Rolfe, N. J. Higbee.
William Cook, and Sarah, his wife, formerly Sarah Crooks, of
Manchester.'
Sunday, 30.----The governor wrote to General Deming, as follows:----
COMMUNICATION OF GOVERNOR FORD TO GENERAL DEMING `Headquarters.
Quincy, June 30, 1844. Sir.---It is my present opinion that the Mormons
will not commit any outbreak, and that no further alarm need be
apprehended. regret to learn that the party in Hancock, who are in favor
of violent measures have circulated a thousand false rumors of danger, for
the purpose of getting men together without my authority, hoping that when
assembled, they may be ready to join in their violent councils. This is a
fraud upon the country, and must not be endured.
I am afraid that the people of Hancock are fast depriving themselves
of the sympathy of their fellow citizens, and of the world. I strictly
order and enjoin on you that you permit no attack on Nauvoo or any of the
people there without my authority. I think it would be best to disband
your forces, unless it should be necessary to retain them to suppress
violence on either side: of this you must be the judge at present.
I direct that you immediately order all persons from Missouri and
Iowa to leave the camp and return to their respective homes without delay.
I direct, also, that you cause all mutinous persons, and all persons
who advise tumultuous proceedings to be arrested; and that you take
energetic measures to stop the practice of spreading false reports put in
circulation to inflame the public mind. [Signed] THOMAS FORD,
Commander-in-Chief. To Brigadier-General Deming, Carthage, Ill.'
A few of the brethren met in council, and agreed to send Brother
George J. Adams to bear the news of the massacre to the Twelve.
Elder Willard Richards wrote the following, and sent it by George J.
Adams:----
WILLARD RICHARDS TO BRIGHAM YOUNG---NAUVOO AFFAIRS. INCLUDING THE
MARTYRDOM `Nauvoo, Sunday, June 30, 1844, 6 p. m. Beloved Brother Brigham
Young,----For the first moment we have had the opportunity, by request of
such brethren of the council as we could call, we write to inform you of
the situation of affairs in Nauvoo and elsewhere.
On the 24th inst., Joseph, Hyrum, and thirteen others went to
Carthage, and gave themselves up to Robert F. Smith, a justice of the
peace, on charge of riot, for destroying the Nauvoo Expositor press and
apparatus.
25th. Were exhibited by Governor Ford to the troops assembled, like
elephants,---gave bonds for appearance at court, were arrested on charge
of treason, and committed to jail without examination.
26th. Brought out to the courthouse contrary to law, for examination,
---returned to jail till witnesses could be procured.
27th. A little before 6 p. m. the jail was forced by an armed,
disguised mob, of from 150 to 200; the guard was frustrated, Hyrum shot in
the nose and throat and two other places, only saying, `I am a dead man'.
Elder Taylor received four balls in left leg and left wrist and hand.
Joseph received four bullets, one in right collar bone, one in right
breast, and two others in his back, he leaped from the east window of the
front room, and was dead in an instant. I remained unharmed. The bodies
were removed to Nauvoo on the 28th, and buried on the 29th. Elder Taylor
remains at Hamilton's Tavern yet; we heard today he is better.
Elder George J. Adams is deputed to convey this to you, together with
today's Extra Nauvoo Neighbor, and other papers giving particulars which
you may rely on.
The effect of this hellish butchery was like the bursting of a
tornado on Carthage and Warsaw; those villages were without inhabitants,
as in an instant they ran for their lives, lest the Mormons should burn
and kill them suddenly---`the wicked flee when no man pursueth'.
The excitement has been great, but the indignation more terrible: a
reaction is taking place, and men of influence are coming from abroad to
learn the facts, and going away satisfied that the Mormons are not the
aggressors.
You now know our situation, and the request of the council is, that
the Twelve return to Nauvoo. The lives of twelve more are threatened with
deadly threats. It has been suggested by the council, that if the Twelve
approved, President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith,
Wilford Woodruff and Orson Pratt return immediately; and William Smith,
whose life is threatened, with all the Smiths, John E. Page, Lyman Wight,
Parley P. Pratt and Orson Hyde spend a little time in publishing the news
in the eastern cities, and getting as many in the church as possible, This
is for you to decide.
The saints have borne this trial with great fortitude and
forbearance. They must keep cool at present. We have pledged our faith not
to prosecute the murderers at present, but leave it to Governor Ford; if
he fails. time enough for us by and by; vengeance is in the heavens. We
have been in close quarters some time,---money and provisions are scarce.
Will the eastern brethren contribute to our relief?
Governor Ford has taken away the state arms from the Legion. Your
families are well, for aught I know. Sister Hyde has gone to Kirtland, I
suppose. I have not been able to get any means for myself or anybody else.
The council consider it best for all the traveling elders to stop
preaching politics---preach the gospel with double energy, and bring as
many to the knowledge of the truth as possible.
The great event of 1844, so long anticipated, has arrived, without a
parallel since the birth of Adam.
Jackson [W. H.] and his gang will try to waylay you coming up the
river, if not before: look out for yourselves.
A little while since Parley wrote to Hyrum about Elder George J.
Adams' proceedings and teachings in Boston. I heard Joseph tell Hyrum to
let Adams alone, let Adams go back there and make all things right, that
Parley had misapprehended some things, and acted in the matter rather
injudiciously,
The saints have entered into covenants of peace with the governor and
government officers, not to avenge the blood of the martyrs, but leave it
with the executive, who had pledged the faith of the state for their
safe-keeping. The elders cannot be too careful in all the world, to keep
from saying anything to irritate and vex the governor, etc., for at
present we must conciliate: it is for our salvation. The governor has
appeared to act with honest intentions; we bring no charge against
him---will wait patiently his proceedings in the matter. Let the elders
keep cool, vengeance rests in heaven.---Yours as ever, WILLARD RICHARDS'.
A council was held by the brethren, at which Messrs. Wood and Conyers
from Quincy were present, also Colonel Richardson, lawyer, from Rushville.
The council again expressed their determination to preserve the peace in
the city, and requested those gentlemen to use their influence to allay
the excitement abroad, which they promised to do.
Colonel Richardson agreed to use all his influence to stay all
illegal writs, and all writs for the present.
General Dunham requested a guard might be sent to Golden's Point, to
protect the people there from the mob.
Father John Smith was present, and spoke of the destruction of crops
by the McDonough troops.
We extract from Elder Woodruff's Journal:----
EXCERPTS FROM WILFORD WOODRUFF'S JOURNAL---THE TWELVE IN BOSTON "The
Boston branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and many
elders from various parts, met in conference in Franklin Hall, Boston, on
the 29th day of June, 1844.
Present: a majority of the Quorum of the Twelve, viz., President
Brigham Young, presiding; Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson
Pratt, William Smith, Wilford Woodruff, and Lyman Wight.
Conference opened by prayer.
Elder Orson Hyde occupied the forenoon in an interesting manner.
Elders Young, Kimball, and Wight severally addressed the meeting in
the afternoon, much to the edification of the people.
Resolved that James H. Glines and Wm. Henderson be ordained elders:
they were ordained under the hands of Elders Brigham Young and Heber C.
Kimball.
Conference adjourned till Sunday morning.
The Twelve met in council in the evening.
30th. 10 a. m. Conference met pursuant to adjournment.
Elder Orson Pratt addressed the meeting, and ably removed the
objections generally urged against new revelation.
In the afternoon, Elder Lyman Wight preached on the immortality of
the body and the spirit, and also the principle of charity, connecting it
with baptism for the dead.
In the evening, Elder Wilford Woodruff preached from the words of
Jesus: `Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.'
The house was full through the day and evening, and much instruction
was given during the conference by those who spoke.'
Monday, July 1.----A. Jonas and Colonel Fellows arrived in Nauvoo,
with a message from the governor to the city council. We copy their
instructions:----
THE GOVERNOR'S INSTRUCTIONS `Colonel Fellows and Captain Jones are
requested to proceed by the first boat to Nauvoo, and ascertain what is
the feeling, disposition, and determination of the people there, in
reference to the late disturbances; ascertain whether any of them propose
in any manner to avenge themselves, whether any threats have been used,
and what; proposed generally to be done by them.
They are also requested to return to Warsaw and make similar
inquiries there; ascertain how far false rumors have been put afloat for
the purpose of raising forces; what is the purpose of the militia
assembled, whether any attack is intended on Nauvoo.
Ascertain also, whether any person from Missouri or Iowa intends to
take part in the matter, and in my name forbid any such interference,
without my request, on pain of being demanded for punishment. [Signed]
THOMAS FORD. June 30th, 1844.
They wrote as follows:----
COMMISSIONERS' NOTE TO THE NAUVOO CITY COUNCIL `Nauvoo, July 1, 1844.
To the City Council of Nauvoo: Gentlemen,----With this you will receive a
copy of instructions from Governor Ford to us. You will understand from
them what we desire from you in action on your part, as the only
authorities of your city now known to the country, of such a character as
will pacify the public mind and satisfy the governor of your determination
to sustain the supremacy of the laws, which will, we are sure, be
gratifying to him, and as much so to Yours respectfully, [Signed] HART
FELLOWS, A. JONAS.'
We copy from the Times and Seasons:--- RESOLUTION'S OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF NAUVOO `At a meeting of the city council, held in the council
room, in the city of Nauvoo, on the first day of July, 1844, having
received instructions from Governor Ford, through the agency of A. Jonas,
Esq., and Colonel Fellows, it was unanimously
Resolved, For the purpose of insuring peace, and promoting the
welfare of the county of Hancock and surrounding country, that we will
rigidly sustain the laws and the governor of the state, so long as they,
and he, sustain us in all our constitutional rights.
Resolved, secondly, That to carry the foregoing resolutions into
complete effect, that inasmuch as the governor has taken from us the
public arms, that we solicit of him to do the same with all the rest of
the public arms of the state.
Resolved, thirdly, To further secure the peace, friendship and
happiness of the people, and allay the excitement that now exists, we will
reprobate private revenge on the assassinators of General Joseph Smith and
General Hyrum Smith by any of the Latter-day Saints. That instead of `an
appeal to arms', we appeal to the majesty of the law, and will be content
with whatever judgment it shall award and should the law fail, we leave
the matter with God.
Resolved, unanimously, That this city council pledge themselves for
the city of Nauvoo, that no aggressions by the citizens of said city shall
be made on the citizens of the surrounding country, but we invite them, as
friends and neighbors, to use the Savior's golden rule, and "do unto
others as they would have others do unto them" and we will do likewise.
Resolved, lastly, That we highly approve of the present public
pacific course of the governor to allay excitement and restore peace among
the citizens of the country; and while he does so, and will use his
influence to stop all vexatious proceedings in law until confidence is
restored, so that the citizens of Nauvoo can go to Carthage, or any other
place, for trial, without exposing themselves to the violence of
assassins, we will uphold him, and the law, by all honorable means.
[Signed] GEORGE W. HARRIS, President pro tem. Willard Richards, Recorder."
`A Jonas. Esq., and Colonel Fellows:--- Messrs.,---In reply to your
communication to the city council of the city of Nauvoo, on behalf of His
Excellency Governor Ford, I have been instructed by the council to
communicate the foregoing resolutions which I respectfully solicit for
your consideration, and at the same time would inform you that a public
meeting of our citizens will take place at the stand, east of the Temple,
at 4 p. m., and solicit your attendance. Most respectfully, your obedient
servant, [Signed] W. RICHARDS.'
ACTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL---EXPRESSIONS OF APPRECIATION `At a
meeting of a large portion of the citizens of Nauvoo, convened at the
stand, in the afternoon of July 1, 1844, after hearing the above
instructions an~ resolutions of the city council read, and being addressed
by A. Jonas, Esq., and others, the meeting responded to the same with a
hearty AMEN!
The citizens then passed a vote of thanks to the governor's agents
for their kindly interference in favor of peace among the citizens of
Hancock county and elsewhere around us.
They also passed a vote of thanks to Messrs. Woods and Reid, the
counsel for the Generals Smith, for their great exertions to have
even-handed justice meted to the Latter-day Saints, and they also passed a
vote of thanks to Messrs. Chambers and Field, the former one of the
editors of the Missouri Republican, and the latter, one of the editors of
the Reveille, of St. Louis, for their honorable course of coming to Nauvoo
for facts, instead of spreading rumors concerning the Latter-day Saints.
Mr. Chambers made a very appropriate speech, containing innuendos for
the benefit of our citizens, that appeared as the wise man said, `like
apples of gold in pictures of silver'.
They also passed a vote of thanks to Messrs. Wood and Conyers mayor
and ex-mayor of Quincy, for their friendly disposition in establishing
peace in this region, and we are happy to say that all appears to be peace
at Nauvoo.'
ADDRESS TO THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS --A WORD
Of CONSOLATION `Deeply impressed for the welfare of all, while mourning
the great loss of President Joseph Smith, our "Prophet and Seer', and
President Hyrum Smith, our `Patriarch', we have considered the occasion
demanded of us a word of consolation.
As has been the cake in all ages, these saints have fallen martyrs
for the truth's sake, and their escape from the persecution of a wicked
world, in blood to bliss, only strengthens our faith, and confirms our
religion as pure and holy.
We, therefore, as servants of the Most High God, having the Bible,
Book of Mormon, and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants together with
thousands of witnesses, for Jesus Christ, would beseech the Latter-day
Saints, in Nauvoo and elsewhere, to hold fast to the faith that has been
delivered to them in the last days, abiding in the perfect law of the
gospel.
Be peaceable, quiet citizens, doing the works of righteousness, and
as soon as the Twelve and other authorities can assemble, or a majority of
them, the onward course to the great gathering of Israel. and the final
consummation of the dispensation of the fullness of times will be pointed
out, so that the murder of Abel, the assassination of hundreds, the
righteous blood of all the holy Prophets, from Abel to Joseph, sprinkled
with the best blood of the Son of God, as the crimson sign of remission,
only carries conviction to the bosoms of all intelligent beings, that the
cause is just and will continue; and blessed are they that hold out
faithful to the end, while apostates, consenting to the shedding of
innocent blood, have no forgiveness in this world nor in the world to
come.
Union is peace, brethren, and eternal life is the greatest gift of
God. Rejoice, then, that you are found worthy to live and die for God. Men
may kill the body, but they cannot hurt the soul, and wisdom shall be
justified of her children. Amen. [Signed] W. W. PHELPS, WILLARD RICHARDS,
JOHN TAYLOR. July 1, 1844'."
CHAPTER XIII
THE MARTYRDOM IN POETRY----EFFORTS FOR FOOD SUPPLIES AND PROTECTION
FOR THE PEOPLE OF NAUVOO----THE DANIELS AFFIDAVIT ON THE MARTYRDOM
"THE following appropriate and expressive poetry we copy from the
Times and Seasons:----
THE ASSASSINATION OF GENERAL JOSEPH AND HYRUM SMITH, FIRST PRESIDENT
AND SECOND PATRIARCH OF THE CHURCH OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, WHO WERE
MASSACRED BY A MOB, IN CARTHAGE, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, ON THE 27TH OF
JUNE, 1844 BY MISS ELIZA R. SNOW `And when he had opened the fifth seal, I
saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God,
and for the testimony which they held.
And they cried with a loud voice, saying, how long, O Lord, holy and
true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the
earth?
And white robes were given unto every one of them; * * * that they
should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also, and
their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled'
(Rev. vi: 9, 10, 11).
`Ye heavens attend! Let all the earth give ear Let God and seraphs,
men and angels hear----- The worlds on high-----the universe shall know
What awful scenes are acted here below! Had nature's self a heart, that
heart would bleed At the recital of that horrid deed; For never, since the
Son of Man was slain Has blood so noble flowed from human vein As that
which now on God for vengeance calls From freedom's ground-----from
Carthage prison walls,
Oh! Illinois! thy soil has drank the blood Of Prophets martyr'd for
the truth of God. Once lov'd America, what can atone For the pure blood of
innocence thou'st sown? Were all thy streams in teary torrents shed Sow
vain the tribute, for the noblest worth That graced thy surface, O
degraded earth! Oh wretched murd'rers! fierce for human blood! You've
slain the Prophets of the riving God, Who've borne oppression from their
early youth, To plant on earth the principles of truth.
Shades of heroic fathers! Can it be Beneath your blood-stained flag
of liberty, The firm supporters of our country's cause, Are butchered
while submissive to her laws? Yes, blameless men, defam'd by hellish lies,
Have thus been offered as a sacrifice T'appease the ragings of a brutish
clan, That has defied the laws of God and man:. `Twas not for crime or
guilt of theirs they fell---- Against the laws they never did rebel; True
to their country, yet her plighted faith Has proved an instrument of cruel
death! Where are thy far-famed laws----Columbia, where Thy boasted
freedom-----thy protecting care? Is this a land of rights? Stern facts
shall say, If legal justice here maintains its sway. The official pow'rs
of State are sheer pretense When they're exerted in the Saints' defense.
Great men have fallen, and mighty men have died---- Nations have
mourn'd their fav'rites and their pride; But TWO so wise, so virtuous,
great and good, Before on earth, at once, have never stood Since the
creation----men whom God ordain'd To publish truth where error long had
reign'd, Of whom the world itself unworthy prov'd, It knew them not; but
men with hatred mov'd,
And with infernal spirits have combin'd Against the best, the noblest
of mankind. Oh persecution! shall thy purple hand Spread utter desolation
through the land? Shall freedom's banner be no more unfurled? Has peace
indeed been taken from the world?
Thou God of Jacob, in this trying hour Help us to trust in thy
Almighty power; Support thy Saints beneath this awful stroke, Make bare
thine arm to break oppression's yoke. We mourn thy Prophet, from whose
lips have flow'd The words of life thy Spirit has bestow'd---- A depth of
thought no human art could reach From time to time, roll'd in sublimest
speech From the celestial fountain, through his mind, To purify and
elevate mankind; The rich intelligence by him brought forth, Is like the
sunbeam spreading o'er the earth.
Now Zion mourns----she mourns an earthly head; The Prophet and the
Patriarch are dead! The blackest deed that men or devils know, Since
Calv'ry's scene, has laid the brothers low! One in their life, and one in
death----they prov'd How strong their friendship----how they truly lov'd;
True to their mission until death they stood, Then seal'd their testimony
with their blood. All hearts with sorrow bleed, and every eye Is bath'd in
tears----each bosom heaves a sigh---- Heartbroken widows' agonizing groans
Are mingled with the helpless orphans' moans! Ye Saints! be still, and
know that God is just---- With steadfast purpose in his promise trust;
Girded with sackcloth, own his mighty hand, And wait his judgment on this
guilty land! The noble martyrs now have gone to move The cause of Zion in
the courts above.
Nauvoo, July 1st, 1844.'
Tuesday, July 2, 1844.----We extract the following from Elders
Kimball and Wight's letter:----
SECOND LETTER FROM ELDERS WIGHT AND KIMBALL---MOVEMENTS OF THE
TWELVE `June 21st, 1844. We again resume the pen to give you a few
further particulars. We met the church in the city of Philadelphia last
evening, pursuant to adjournment, the members being all present. The vote
was taken to know whether they would sustain the First Presidency and the
Twelve in their calling, and follow their counsel spiritually and
temporally, lay aside all their prejudice and fears, and follow them
through evil as well as through good report. There was not a dissenting
vote. We think the church is in a good condition. There will be some added
next Sabbath by baptism, and we trust more ere long. For our manner of
preaching and instructing the church, we refer you to brothers Forgeus and
Price.
We leave here today, at 4 o'clock, for the Wilmington conference;
Many of the brethren and sisters from this place are going with us. We
have so many calls in this place, from those in the church and out of it,
that we cannot stop a night in a place. We are at this time at Sister
McMinn's, whose family treat us with all the kindness and attention that
the servants of God could ask. They wish to be remembered to the Prophet
and family, and so do all the saints in this place; and they are now
determined to uphold you by their prayers in all things. I must confess
this was not the case when we came here, with all, We learned that it is
too much the case that the Twelve often find their way hedged up by the
presiding elders endeavoring to exalt themselves and debase us, but you
will find it different with your case in Philadelphia. June 24th, 1844.
Just returned from Wilmington conference, accompanied by several of
the brethren and sisters who went from this place. We can truly say that
this was one of the most pleasant trips in our life. We went down on the
steamer Balloon, and returned by railway.
Our conference commenced on Saturday, the 22nd. The brethren came in
from the adjacent country, and after much instruction from Brothers
Kimball and Wight, we took a vote to know whether they would go
withersoever the Presidency, Patriarch and Twelve went, should it be to
Oregon, Texas, or California, or any other place directed by the wisdom of
Almighty God. The saints, numbering about 100, rose to their feet and
exclaimed, Whithersoever they go, we go, without a dissenting voice. This
was truly an interesting meeting. We have not the least idea that anyone
will back out;
they are nearly all men of wealth, and have commenced this morning to
offer all surplus property for sale, that whenever you say go, they are
ready. We ordained ten as promising young elders as we ever laid hands
upon. They pledged themselves to start this week and go through the state
of Delaware from house to house, and proclaim that the kingdom of heaven
is at hand.
On Sabbath, the 23rd, we preached alternately to a large and
respectable congregation, and left the warmest of friends in that place,
both in and out of the church. We have hundreds of pleasant sceneries in
our journals, which are too numerous to mention at present. Yours as ever,
[Signed] HEBER C. KIMBALL, LYMAN WiGHT.'
Tuesday, 2----Elder John Taylor was brought home from Carthage to the
joy of his friends.
ACTION OF CITY COUNCIL ON SUPPLYING FOOD FOR NAUVOO `A special
session of the city council was called to devise ways and means for
supplying the city with provisions. Dr. Richards, Colonel Dunham, Marshal
Greene, and others, stated to the council that many were destitute, and
that unless active measures were taken, many must suffer with hunger, as
some had already; wherefore it was
Resolved, by the city council of the city of Nauvoo ,that special
committees be appointed to visit the different sections of the surrounding
country, and solicit the benevolent for donations, or provisions and means
for supplying the wants of the destitute of this city; and so far as
donations fail, supply the deficiency by loans.
Resolved, That Charles Patten, W. H. Jordan, and L. S. Dalrymple be
this committee for Iowa; that D. M. Repsher, A. Morrison, and Captain Ross
go to Madison, Burlington, and the north country; that Benjamin Clapp,
Samuel James, and Hiram Clark visit Ramus, La Harpe, and the eastern
country, and that Isaac Morley assist the south to carry out the foregoing
resolutions, Resolved, That L. N. Scovil, Edwin D. Woolley, and William M.
Gheen, be a standing committee to negotiate for all necessary supplies to
those who are on duty by order of government,
Resolved, That each of said committees keep an accurate account of
all donations and loans, and make returns of the same to the marshal of
the city. Passed July 2nd, 1844, 6 p. m. [Signed] ORSON SPENCER, President
pro tem. W. Richards, Recorder.'
GEORGE J. ADAMS---MESSENGER TO BRIGHAM YOUNG---FAILURE OF `To whom it
may concern--- Elder George J. Adams has been deputed by council of the
church to bear despatches to Elder Young, president of the Quorum of the
Twelve, relative to the death of the Prophet Joseph, and his brother Hyrum
Smith, and the brethren are requested to see that no means are wanting to
speed him on his important mission.
In behalf of the church, [Signed] WiLLARD RICHARDS, Clerk of the
Quorum of the Twelve.'
George J. Adams failed to perform this mission, although he had
plenty of means, but Jedediah M. Grant went right through, and carried the
word.
General Dunham wrote as follows:----- LETTER OF GENERAL DUNHAM TO
GOVERNOR FORD--CALL FOR MORE MILITIA TROOPS TO CHECK MOB AT WARSAW AND
GOLDEN'S POINT
`His Excellency Governor Ford. I am sorry to inform you that the mob
is still prowling between Warsaw and Golden's Point, waiting for an
opportunity to come in and burn and destroy. The mob party are continually
threatening us, and are driving our people away from their homes, and they
are obliged to come here for protection.
I want you to send about one hundred or two hundred men whom you can
depend upon as loyal, to quarter in the woods between here and Golden's
Point, so that they can be between us and the mob, and protect us. Our
troops are worn out, and I shall soon expect an order from you to
discharge my men from the duty they are obliged to perform, to fulfil your
order.
I am your Excellency's obedient servant, [Signed] JONATHAN DUNHAM,
Major-General Commanding Nauvoo Legion. July 2, 1844, 8 p. m.'
At a council of the Twelve and other elders, held in the Franklin
Hall, Boston, there were ordained two elders, and arrangements made for
dividing off into different parts of the vineyard. Each of the Twelve were
appointed to attend several conferences.
Elders Wilford Woodruff and Milton Holmes took steamer for Portland,
Maine.
Colonel Lyman Wight delivered a political address at Bunker Hill, at
4 p. m.
Wednesday, 3.----We copy from the Neighbor:----
THE ANSWER OF GOVERNOR FORD TO THE WARSAW COMMITTEE-- REVIEW OF
MURDER OF THE GENERALS SMITH `Quincy, July 3, 1844. To the Warsaw
Committee: Gentlemen,---I have received your communication on behalf of
the citizens of Warsaw, stating their unalterable determination to compel
the Mormons of your county to leave the state; or otherwise to abandon
their own homes and evacuate the county, and asking my interference and
influence to assist you in procuring the removal of the Mormons.
I have no reply whatever to make to that part of your letter which
treats of the history, character, and offenses of the Mormons. I deem
this, however, a fit occasion to remark somewhat upon the character of the
events which have just transpired. These events present reasons for my
determination which must be noticed.
When I came to your county I announced the policy by which I intended
to be governed. The law was to be my guide; and this you well understand.
I announced this determination in numerous public addresses, and uniformly
in my private conversations. I successively obtained a vote to sustain me
in this course from every troop stationed at Carthage, or who was visiting
there.
From the detachment of your town and vicinity, who visited Carthage
the day before the surrender of the Smiths, I obtained a similar pledge. 1
met them on the prairie, before they arrived in town, and as they must
testify, stated to them at length, the reason which ought to influence
them to keep the peace and abide the operation of the laws. They gave
every demonstration of satisfaction, and signified, with unanimous
acclamation, that they would stand by me in taking a strictly legal
course.
All the other portion of the Hancock forces under my command were
repeatedly and deeply pledged to sustain me in the same course. Under the
firm and confident assurance of support thus obtained, I demanded the
surrender of the Smiths, and promised them security.
In doing so, I now acknowledge that I erred, and erred grievously, in
relying with too much confidence upon men with whom I was but little
acquainted. The idea that men could be treacherous under such
circumstances was abhorrent to my nature, and rejected with indignation.
Whatever your hatred of the Smiths might be, I was too confident you
would respect your honor---the honor of your country and state, and the
rights of defenseless prisoners. I could not believe that so much
stupidity and baseness as was necessary for such an enterprise as the
murder of defenseless prisoners in jail would be, could be mustered in
Hancock county.
What aggravates the transaction, as a matter personal to myself, is
that you betrayed my honor as well as your own, and that of the state; and
you selected a time to commit the deed when you believed I was in Nauvoo,
in the power of the Mormons, and would most probably be murdered by them
by way of retaliation.
Upon the whole I cannot too strongly express my indignation and
abhorrence of the base and profligate act which has disgraced the state
and raised suspicions in the minds of many in regard to my conduct in the
matter of the most painful character to my feelings.
I am happy, however, to learn that these denunciations apply only to
a small portion of the people of Warsaw and Hancock county. All the most
responsible inhabitants ought to be acquitted of any direct participation
with the conspirators.
If they are culpable at all, it is for not using their influence
against the act, and for not communicating to me information which would
have enabled me to prevent it. The intention of the people must, to some
extent, have been whispered about and understood, and ought to have been
communicated to me as commander-in-chief.
Under these circumstances I am in but a poor situation to use
influence with the Mormons, to procure their removal. Your own people have
destroyed whatever influence I might otherwise have possessed in that
quarter to serve you.
Your own conduct has placed me in a painfully suspicious attitude;
and I have no hopes that I could now have a more persuasive influence with
the Mormons than I had with the perpetrators of the horrid deed which I
sought to prevent. Under the circumstances I cannot ask the Mormons to
confide in me.
It must appear to them that they have been betrayed by somebody, and
they do not know by whom.
If you mean to request me to exercise a forcible influence to expel
them from the state, I answer you now, as I have uniformly done, that the
law is my guide, and that I know of no law authorizing their expulsion.
From this determination I have not swerved for an instant from the
beginning until this time.
I see nothing now requiring any deviation, and besides, if I were
ever so much determined to drive them out, I believe such is the
abhorrence against the base deed which some of you have committed, that I
could not obtain voluntary aid from the people.
I suppose that you are aware that a call for volunteers is the only
mode in which a force can be raised, and the force when raised must be
provisioned by voluntary contribution.
You had better not make too loud a call upon your fellow citizens;
you may want their aid for defense; and may yet be glad to receive aid for
defense rather than aggression.
I know the apprehensions which you entertain of Mormon violence; I
will not now say whether your fears are well or ill founded; a little tiMe
will develop what may be expected.
Taking the law for my guide, I can assure you that although some of
you have treated me badly, in thwarting my policy and violating my honor,
and have acted basely towards defenseless prisoners, yet you are entitled
to, and are assured of all the force of the state to prevent or avenge
illegal violence towards any of you. An inquiry must be made concerning
the murderers; they must for the honor and credit of the state be dealt
with according to law.
You ask a small force to be stationed in your county as a protection
against small parties. You have not probably duly considered how large a
force would be necessary for this purpose. A small force could protect but
a few points of attack, and must necessarily leave the residue of the
county exposed.
A large force cannot be stationed there permanently. Your best
protection is the assurance that upon the first aggression or well defined
threats, an overpowering force is ready to march directly for the scene of
action.
I am informed that a design is still entertained at Warsaw of
attacking Nauvoo. In this you will not be sustained by myself or the
people; it is a part of my policy that you remain quiet, and if you
please, watchful, but strictly on the defensive; and I now announce to you
that I will not be thwarted in this policy with impunity.
I am, most respectfully Your obedient servant, [Signed] THOMAS FORD.'
Wednesday, 3.-----Messrs. John B. Kimball, of Warsaw, and Elias
Smith, of Nauvoo, reported that John Patrick Wells and W. Voorhees were
wounded in the affray at Carthage.
Elders Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball spent the day together in
the city of Boston, and in the evening visited the museum.
Thursday, 4.----Elder Samuel H. Smith received a letter from Richard
Ballantyne, introducing Mr. William M. Daniels.
Mr. Daniels made the following affidavit:-----
AFFIDAVIT OF WILLIAM M. DANIELS `State of Illinois, Hancock county,
On the 4th day of July, 1844, came William M. Daniels before me, Aaron
Johnson, a justice of the peace within and for said county, and after
being duly sworn, deposeth and saith that on Saturday, the 22nd day of
June, 1844, he came to the town of Warsaw, in said county of Hancock, and
continued there until the Thursday following, the 27th day of June; that
on that morning your affiant joined the rifle company commanded by Jacob
Davis;
that the lieutenant and -------- Chittenden, Esq., said that as the
governor would be absent from Carthage that day, that they would send ten
men from each of the two companies to join the Carthage Greys, and kill
the two Generals Smith, and if the governor opposed, to kill him too; that
among those twenty men were Mr. Houck, a tailor and Mr. Stephens, a
cooper; the rest of the two companies marched towards Golden's Point to
the railroad crossing, when they were met by the governor's order to
disband all the troops, and Colonel Williams disbanded them.
That then the captains called them to order, saying they had no
command over them, but wished them to form in line, which they did; that
then Mr. Sharp, the editor of the Warsaw Signal, urged by a speech the
necessity of killing the two Smiths, and a vote was then called who would
go and do it.
Captain Davis and about twenty men went home, the residue,
eighty-four men, went to Carthage, having six runners ahead to stop the
twenty men who had before started for Carthage.
Soon after they started, one of the Carthage Greys met them with a
letter, saying it was a most delightful time, the governor had gone, they
could now kill Joseph and Hyrum Smith, and must do it quick before the
governor returned; that they then turned to the left between the Warsaw
and Nauvoo roads, and were not seen again by your affiant till they
arrived at the jail in Carthage; that among the names of those who
committed the murder at the jail in Carthage, Hancock county aforesaid, on
the 27th day of June, 1844, at about 5 o'clock and 20 minutes, was Colonel
Levi Williams, of Green Plains precinct, Captain Wires, ---------
Chittenden, Esq., of Warsaw, and a man by the name of Mills, who was
wounded in the right arm.
That your affiant would further state that this company before
mentioned were painted black; that the guns of the guard at the jail were
loaded with blank cartridges; that this was an arrangement entered into by
the Carthage Greys, as said the messenger who came to meet said company in
the morning.
That your said affiant saw Joseph Smith leap from the window of the
jail, and that one of the company picked him up and placed him against the
well curb, and several shot him, Colonel Williams exclaiming, `Shoot him!
Damn him! Shoot him!' and further your affiant saith not. [Signed]
WILLIAM M. DANIELS.'
The following anonymous letter was written:--- A PLEA FOR LIBERTY AND
JUSTICE--ANONYMOUS `For the Lee County Democrat, Lee County, Iowa, July 4,
1844, Mr. Editor: Sir,---On this birthday of our common country, I am
admonished
This pamphlet detailing the alleged miraculous incidents in the
murder was brought out in the trial and Daniels confronted with it, swore
to the statements. The counsel for the defendants asked the court to
eliminate all consideration of such testimony from the record. The court
granted the request in the following terms:
"That in making up their (the jury's) verdict they will exclude from
their consideration all that was said by Daniels, Brackenbury, and Miss
Graham (witnesses)."
It was supposed that the testimony of Brackenbury and Miss Graham
would support the testimony of Daniels, but this support failed to appear.
We quote what is alleged to be a reproduction of much of it, in a book
published in Utah under the title of The Martyrs. The excerpt begins with
the appearance of the Prophet in the window of the prison under the fire
of the mob:---
"He sprang into the window; but just as he was preparing to descend,
he saw such an array of bayonets below, that he caught by the window
casing, where he hung by his hands and feet, with his head to the north,
feet to the south, and his body swinging downward. He hung in that
position three or four minutes, during which time he exclaimed, two or
three times, `O, Lord, My God!!!' and fell to the ground. While he was
hanging in that position, Colonel Williams hallooed, `Shoot him! G--d d--m
him! shoot the dam'd rascal!' However, none fired at him.
He seemed to fall easy. He struck partly on his right shoulder and
back, his neck and head reaching the ground a little before his feet. He
rolled instantly on his face. From this position he has taken by a young
man, who sprang to him from the other side of the fence, who held a pewter
fife in his hand, was barefoot and bareheaded, having no coat, with his
pants rolled above his knees, and shirt sleeves above his elbows. He set
President Smith against the south side of the well curb, that was situated
a few feet from the jail. While doing this, the savage muttered aloud,
`This is Old Jo; I know him. I know you, Old Jo. Damn you; you are the man
that had my daddy shot.' The object he had in talking in this way, I
supposed to be this: He wished to have President Smith and the people in
general, believe he was the son of Governor Boggs, which would lead to the
opinion that it was the Missourians who had come over and committed the
murder. This was the report that they soon caused to be circulated; but
this was too palpable an absurdity to be credited.
* * * The ruffian, of whom I have spoken, who set him against the
well curb, now secured a bowie knife for the purpose of severing his head
from his body, He raised the knife and was in the attitude of striking,
when a light, so sudden and powerful burst from the heavens upon the
bloody scene, (passing its vivid chain between Joseph and his murderers),
that they were struck with terrified awe and filled with consternation.
This light, in its appearance and potency, baffles all powers of
description. The arm of the ruffian, that held the knife, fell powerless;
the muskets of the four, who fired, fell to the ground, and they all stood
like marble statues, not having power to move a single limb of their
bodies.
By this time most of the men had fled in great disorder. I never saw
so frightened a set of men before. Colonel Williams saw the light and was
also badly frightened; but he did not entirely lose the use of his limbs
or speech. Seeing the condition of these men, he hallooed to some who had
just commenced to retreat, for God's sake to come and carry off these men.
They came back and carried them by main strength towards the baggage
wagons. They seemed as helpless as if they were dead" (The Martyrs, pp.
79-81. For treatment somewhat in full see Comprehensive History of the
Church, Century I, vol. ii, ch. lx, pp. 321-34; also History of Hancock
County, Gregg, pp. 323-31). B. H. R.
by surrounding circumstances that something must be done by the
friends of liberty, and that speedily too, or the star spangled banner of
the American Eagle must soon cease to wave its golden pinions over the
heads of freemen.
I was aroused to these reflections by the statements of Messrs. Reid
and Woods in the Nauvoo Neighbor Extra, of Sunday, June 30th, 1844, 3 p.
m., also of the Neighbor of yesterday, Mr. H. T. Reid is a gentleman of
high legal attainments, of Madison, in our county, possessed of a
character for truth and veracity not to be impeached. Mr. J. W. Woods is
an attorney, of Burlington, in this territory, of the same character and
standing. His word may be relied on; and as these gentlemen were in the
midst of the circumstances which led to the horrid butchery of Generals
Joseph and Hyrum Smith at Carthage, on the 27th ult., and as they, like
myself, are no Mormons, and live in a neighboring territory, I hope the
citizens of these United States will give their statements of this horrid
affair, that confidence and calm deliberation which the case solemnly
demands.
If the freeborn sons of American liberty can be incarcerated in
prison for some supposed or real crime without the privilege of an
investigation, and be murdered by a ruthless mob in that defenseless
state, in open daylight, and in the presence of the authorities of the
land too, where, I ask in the name of freemen, where is our freedom? Where
is our security for all the blessings for which our fathers fought and
bled? Who will ere long dare lay his head upon his pillow in his own
habitation and say, I am safe? If the strong walls of a prison are not
sufficient to guarantee safety to citizens of this republic, what may we
soon expect who live in unwalled houses? I ask in the name of humanity,
are not American liberties on the verge of a mighty precipice, just ready
to plunge into the whirlpool of utter dissolution?
Perhaps it may be said the Mormons are to blame; and supposing they
are, does this warrant death and destruction to be hurled at them without
judge or jury? The riots at Philadelphia and other places have been
sufficiently alarming, but the recent tragedy at Carthage mocks all
parallel---history has no equal.
The page of time till June 27th, 1844, has been unstained by such a
riot. I mourn for my country. How has the soil of an independent state
been crimsoned with innocent blood? I say innocent, for the law holds
every man innocent till he is proved guilty. Were the Smiths proved
guilty? No! they had no trial. Where is the plighted faith of the state?
How is the honor of all this western country tarnished! How will the
jealousies of the eastern states be excited by this unheard of butchery!
I am a native of New England. I know the prejudices of the eastern
people concerning the west and south. They feel that a man cannot travel
in safety in our region, in Illinois, in Iowa, and the surrounding states
and territories, without a pistol and a bowie knife, and that we almost
belong to another race of beings; and when our eastern friends shall read
the true and frightful tale of Messrs. Reid and Woods, well may their
fears be increased, their jealousies aroused, and they led to believe that
all they had anticipated was true concerning us. But, Mr. Editor, I would
undeceive them; and although not one palliating circumstance, to my
knowledge, offers itself to the public mind in relation to the occurrence
at Carthage, yet I would say to my friends in New England, and to all men,
the citizens of the west do not approbate such proceedings.
More than nineteen-twentieths of the citizens of Iowa, and, I am
confident, of Illinois, reprobate with unqualified abhorrence the
atrocious deed.
The wise, the virtuous, the patriotic of all sects and denominations
and parties, political or religious, hurl their anathemas at the barbarous
deed which was transacted by a lawless mob, a few scores of desperadoes,
if we can believe the most authentic intelligence from the scene of
trouble.
The great, great mass of the people deprecate the event as much as
would the inhabitants of Vermont, Massachusetts, or any other state, and
why not? We are their sons, their brothers, their sisters, their
daughters, nursed by the same mothers, cradled by the same firesides.
I repeat what is well known, I am no Mormon, and that they may be
guilty of some things as a society. If they are, I do not know it. So far
as I have seen their leaders, their teachings have been moral and upright,
and their publications state if they have erred in anything, they have
erred unintentionally, and they are ready to be set right by the powers
above them.
Why then should not the law have its course? Why should any man be
condemned without a hearing? If this thing is suffered to go any further,
God knows where it will end; I fear a general civil war, and I do hope
that every good man in the union will arise and stamp with infamy any such
unlawful proceedings.
If the city of Nauvoo erred in declaring the printing press of the
Expositor a nuisance, what then? I am no lawyer, but I suppose it could be
no more than a trespass---they liable for damage only; and if they erred
in judgment, it is not the first time a legislative body has erred.
Congress might have done as much, and not be killed for it; then why kill
them?
Mr. Editor, is the action of the government to bring the murderers of
the Generals Smith to justice? I ask for information. Have the
perpetrators been discovered? Have arrests been made? Have rewards been
made? Have rewards been offered by the governor of Illinois? or has he
been dilatory in his duties, as the respectable part of the community
think him to be?
If he does his duty, I trust justice will be done to the assassins;
but it is not enough to deprecate alone, action, decided action
should be had in the case, that our country may be saved from mobocracy
and violence, and order and law bear rule again in our land. I am, sir,
[Signed] A FRIEND TO EQUAL RIGHTS.'"
CHAPTER XIV
A CHAPTER OF SUNDRY EVENTS AT VARIOUS PLACES AND DOCUMENTS
FOLLOWING THE MARTYRDOM: UNITED STATES PRESS COMMENTS ON THE MURDER
Thursday, July 4, 1844.----Elders Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball,
with several other elders, visited the grand exhibition of fireworks on
the Boston Common this evening. A great multitude were present.
Friday, 5.----Mr. Daniels started about 9 a. m. to go and see the
governor, and tell him what he knew in relation to the massacre of the
Generals Smith.
A raft of pine lumber arrived from the upper country.
Elders Young and Kimball took cars from Boston, and proceeded to
Linn.
Saturday, 6.----General Deming and Mr. Robertson arrived in the city
at 2 p. m. They expressed themselves abundantly satisfied with Dr.
Richards' proceedings and agreement at Carthage, and said they believed
the governor would do all in his power to quell further outrages, and
preserve the peace.
William Clayton took charge of the raft of lumber which arrived
yesterday, as agent for the trustee.
William Clayton saw the governor's reply to the letter from the
Warsaw Committee of Safety, and recorded in his journal thus:----`The
governor seems disposed to make the best of his situation, and try to
restore the credit of the state by bringing the assassins to justice.
A conference was held in Genessee, New York. Four branches were
represented, containing 95 members, including 23 elders. Elder C. W.
Wandell presided.
Sunday, 7.----Meeting at the stand.
Judge W. W. Phelps read Governor Ford's letter in reply to the Warsaw
Committee.
President Marks addressed the meeting.
Dr. Willard Richards advised some of the people to go out and
harvest, and others who stay to go on with the Temple, and make work in
the city.
R. D. Foster arrived in the city. His presence produced some
excitement in consequence of the saints believing he was accessory to the
murder of the Prophets.
The following was sent to General Deming:----
LETTER TO GENERAL DEMING `Nauvoo, Sunday, July 7, 1844. General
Deming, Acting-Commander of the Forces of Hancock County. Sir,---We are
informed that Dr. R. D. Foster is in this city, and that he has an order
from Governor Ford to call out Captain Dunn's company of militia to guard
him while here transacting business.
You must be aware, sir, at sight of such communication, the situation
in which such an order of things must place this people, and of the
difficulties which might grow out of such a course, and we earnestly
desire your immediate action as agent of the governor for this county, to
prevent any such occurrence.
We request General Deming to interfere in this matter. We request
that no troops be quartered among us, for any such purpose, lest
excitement arise between them and the citizens.
We desire that Dr. Foster's business be transacted by agency, or some
way, so that there may be no cause of contention or excitement in our
midst. Nothing shall be wanted on our part to keep the peace; but without
the cooperation of government, it would seem impossible to accomplish it.
We are, sir, most respectfully, your servants and the friends of
peace, WILLARD RICHARDS, W. W. PHELPS, JOHN P. GREENE.
P. S.---General Deming knows the threats which have been made by Dr.
Foster, and the cause we have to fear his presence, as well as troops in
such a case.'
Elder Kimball's journal records a conference held this day at Salem.
He preached in the forenoon, Elder Lyman Wight in the afternoon, and Elder
Orson Pratt in the evening.
The conference went off well, the brethren realizing they had a good
time.
A conference was held in the Presbyterian meetinghouse in
Scarborough, Maine, which continued through the 6th and 7th. Elder Wilford
Woodruff presided.
The conference was addressed, and business attended to by Elders
Wilford Woodruff, M, Holmes, E. Tufts, and Samuel Parker.
A large mob assembled in Philadelphia on the 6th, and gathered in
front of St. Philip s Church, with the intention of burning it, because of
some difficulty existing between the Protestants and the Irish Catholics.
The mob continued two days. The governor of the state called out 3,000 of
the militia. There were 14 killed and 50 wounded during the riot.
Monday, 8.----About this time a letter was received from D. S.
Hollister, reporting progress for the Baltimore convention to nominate
candidates for the presidency.
Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Lyman Wight,
Erastus Snow, Daniel Spencer and J. L. Heywood, held three meetings in the
concert hall, Salem. The house was full and the brethren felt well.
The following is extracted from the New York Tribune:----
THE TROUBLES AT NAUVOO `We begin almost to fear that the terrible
scenes of cruelty, devastation of peaceful homes, and indiscriminate
hunting down of men, women and children, which disgraced Missouri a few
years since, during the expulsion of the Mormons from that state, are to
be reenacted in Illinois.
The history of these deeds has never been, and probably never will be
written; but enough of their atrocities has been heard from casual
recitals of eye and ear witnesses to make the soul sicken with horror at
their contemplation.
We are not the apologists of Joe Smith, or of the mummeries of
Mormonism: we are ready to admit that the existence of that sect in the
shape which it would seem Smith is bent on imparting to it, is fraught
with danger, and should be looked to by the proper power; but in the name
of common humanity, we stand up for the lives and security of helpless
women and innocent children.
The executives of Illinois and Missouri have had loud and fair
warning by the meetings in Carthage, Warsaw and St. Louis, of the dreadful
scheme of arson and assassination that is going on to exterminate the
Mormons; and if they permit the monstrous crime of the sacking of a city,
the murder of men in cold blood, and the sacrifice of women and children
to the demoniac fury of an inflamed mob, they will not, they cannot be
held guiltless.
There are other means by which the course of the Mormons, if unlawful
or destructive of the rights of others, can be restrained and punished;
but, even if there be no immediate legal redress, are murder, rapine,
desolation, the brand of civil war hurled among those who should be
friends and neighbors---are these a suitable substitute for a little time
and patience?
Let the citizens of Illinois look to their votes when next they
approach the ballot box, and examine well for whom and for what principles
they are cast, and they can restore the government of their state to hands
that will remove their grievances and reassure them in their rights much
more speedily than they can rebuild one log hut sacrificed to brutal war,
or atone for the blood of a single human victim.'
Tuesday, 9.----Elders Willard Richards and John Taylor wrote as
follows:----
LETTER OF INSTRUCTION AND INSTRUCTION TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE BRITISH
MISSION `Nauvoo, Illinois, U. S., July 9th, 1844. Elder Reuben Hedlock,
Presiding Elder of the Church of Jesus Christ in England, and the Saints
in the British Empire.
Beloved Brethren,---As Elder James Parsons is about to leave for
England, we embrace this, as the first opportunity, to communicate to you
one of the most signal events which has ever transpired in the history of
the church.
It has been declared by all the former Prophets and Apostles, that
God had reserved unto himself a peculiar people for the last days, who
would not only be zealous in good works, but who should be purified as
gold in the furnace seven times, and who would have to endure through
faith and patience in all long-suffering, in meekness, forbearance, love,
and every God-like virtue unto the end as good soldiers, and meet all the
scorn, scoff, and derision and chiding, buffeting and persecution a wicked
world could heap upon them, and even death itself, not counting their
lives dear unto themselves, that they might obtain their inheritance in
that kingdom of their heavenly Father, which Jesus, their elder brother,
had gone to prepare for them.
It is in this period of time that we are permitted to live. It is at
the dawning of that day of days in which our heavenly Father is about to
usher in that glorious period when times and seasons shall be changed and
earth renewed, when after rumors and commotions, turmoils, strife,
confusion, blood and slaughter, the sword shall be beaten into
ploughshares, and peace and truth triumphantly prevail over all the
footstool of Jehovah. The day of these events has dawned, although to
human view a cloud has overspread the horizon.
You are acquainted with the general history of the church to which we
belong. From our lips and pens you have learned its rise and progress; you
have heard of the persecution of the saints in Missouri, and their
expulsion from thence, together with their kind reception by the citizens
of Illinois, where we have been located for the last four years.
For some months past we have been troubled with the wicked
proceedings of certain apostates in our midst, who have striven to
overthrow the church and produce trouble and anguish in the mind of every
virtuous being, but their designs having been frustrated by the wise and
judicious management on the part of the Prophet and the saints.
These apostates, reckless of all consequences, made a deadly thrust
at our overthrow, leaving the city suddenly, and, afterwards, by
themselves or agents, fired their own buildings, doubtless thinking they
would charge it upon the saints, and by that means excite a mob in the
surrounding country, who would fall upon and burn the city, but in this
they were disappointed, our vigilant police discovered and extinguished
the flames.
Their next course was to arrest the Prophet, the Patriarch, and
others, by legal process and false pretense, and take them to Carthage,
the county seat, for investigation; but they gave themselves up to the
requisition of the law, on the pledge of Governor Ford that they should be
protected from all personal violence, and went voluntarily to Carthage,
without even the attendance of the officer.
Considerable excitement prevailed in the neighborhood, to allay which
they voluntarily gave bonds for their appearance at the next session of
the circuit court. Their voluntary and noble conduct should have satisfied
every mind, but certain individuals of the basest sort swore out a writ
for treason against the Prophet Joseph and the Patriarch Hyrum Smith, and
they were thrust into jail without trial, without examination, without any
legal course or procedure, on the 25th of June, where they remained till
the next day, when they were brought before the magistrate, that a day
might be set for their examination.
They were immediately remanded to prison, where they remained until
the 27th, when but few of their friends were permitted to see them.
Between five and six o'clock p. m., of that day, a company of 150 or
200 armed, disguised and painted men rushed upon the guard who were set to
watch the prison door, overpowered them, rushed upstairs into the entry
adjoining the room where Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith were, and John
Taylor and Willard Richards sitting with them to keep them company.
As soon as the mob arrived at the head of the stairs, they fired
through the door and shot Hyrum in the face. He fell instantly,
exclaiming, `I am a dead man .'
The mob instantly forced open the door with the points of the
bayonets, and recommenced an indiscriminate discharge of firearms upon all
in the room.
Mr. Taylor, in attempting to leap from the window, was shot and fell
back in the chamber, Joseph, in attempting to leap from the same window,
was shot, and fell on the outside, about 20 feet descent, when the mob
gathered instantly round him and again shot him.
Joseph and Hyrum received each four balls, and were killed instantly.
Elder Taylor received four balls in his left wrist and left leg---is doing
well and is likely to recover.
Dr. Richards was marked on his left ear and cheek, otherwise remained
unharmed. The whole scene occupied only two minutes, When the mob flied
rapidly towards Warsaw.
The bodies of the murdered men were removed to Nauvoo on the 28th,
and were buried on the 29th. This event has caused the deepest mourning
among the saints, but they have not attempted to avenge the outrage.
The governor has promised that the whole treacherous proceedings
shall be investigated according to law, and the saints have agreed to
leave it with him, and with God to avenge their wrongs in this matter.
There has been considerable excitement in the surrounding country, which
is now in a great measure allayed. The action of the saints has been of
the most pacific kind, remembering that God has said, `Vengeance is mine,
I will repay'.
For further particulars we refer you to the statements of Messrs.
Reid and Woods, and other statements in the Nauvoo Neighbor, which we send
you with this; and now, beloved brethren, we say to you all, as we say to
the saints here, be still and know that God reigns. This is one of those
fiery trials that is to try the saints in the last days.
These servants of God have gone to heaven by fire----the fire of an
ungodly mob. Like the Prophets of ancient days they lived as long as the
world would receive them; and this is one furnace in which the saints were
to be tried, to have their leaders cut off from their midst, and not be
permitted to avenge their blood.
God has said, `Vengeance is mine; I have not called mine elders to
fight their battles; I will fight their battles for them;' and we know,
assuredly, that he will do it in his own due time, and we have only to
wait in patience and pray for the fulfillment of the promise.
This event is one of the most foul and damnable that ever disgraced
the earth, having no parallel in time. Innocent men imprisoned without
law, without justice, and murdered in cold blood in the enlightened
nineteenth century, in an enlightened country in open daylight.
It will call down the wrath and indignation of all nations upon the
perpetrators of the horrid deed, and will prove the truth of the saying,
`The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.' They died for the
word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.
God has not left his church without witnesses; as in former days so
shall it be in the latter days, when one falls another will arise to
occupy a similar station. Our heavenly Father always has had a leader to
his people, always will have, and the gates of hell can never prevail
against the chosen of heaven.
The murder of Joseph will not stop the work; it will not stop the
Temple; it will not stop the gathering; it will not stop the honest-in-
heart from believing the truth and obeying it; but it is a proof of the
revelations we have received from heaven through him. He has sealed his
testimony with his blood. He was willing to die, and desired only to live
for the sake of the brethren.
Two better men than Joseph and Hyrum Smith never lived. Two better
men God never made. The memorial of their godly lives is embalmed, printed
with indelible ink in the memory of every honest heart who knew their
upright walk and conversation; but they are taken away by the hands of
assassins, and of the foolish things of the earth God will raise up others
to comfort and lead his people, and not one item of his word can fail.
Jerusalem must be rebuilt and Zion must be redeemed, the earth be
cleansed from blood by fire, Jesus return to his own, and all who shall
continue faithful unto the end shall rest in everlasting peace and
blessedness.
We alone, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, are here at this time
to write to you, the remaining ten are in the eastern states preaching the
gospel, and we expect them soon to return; and as soon as God will, we
will write you again.
Proceed onward with all your labors as though nothing had happened,
only, preach Joseph martyred for his religion, instead of living, and God
will pour out his Spirit upon you, and hasten his work from this time.
Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits; believe not every
report, for every false rumor that men and demons can invent is set afloat
to gull the world. What we have told you by letter and papers is true, but
time will not permit to tell you every particular now. Be humble,
prayerful, watchful, and let not the adversary get any advantage of one of
you, and may the choicest blessings of Israel's God rest upon you and
abide with you, that you may endure faithful in all tribulation and
affliction, and be prepared to be gathered unto Mount Zion, and enter into
celestial glory, is the earnest prayer of your brethren in the new and
everlasting covenant. Amen. [Signed] WiLLARD RICHARDS, JOHN TAYLOR.
P. S.---We would have said that while Joseph was on his way to
Carthage, and on the prairie, he said to his friends around him, `I am
going like a lamb to the slaughter, but my mind is calm as the summer's
morning, I have a conscience void of offense towards God and towards all
men.' Joseph also said to his friends, `I am going voluntarily to give
myself up, and it shall be said of me that I was murdered in cold blood.'
Elders Brigham Young and Orson Pratt were at Boston when they first
heard the rumors of the massacre of the Prophets, but did not believe the
accounts were correct.
Elders Kimball and Wight were in Salem this morning, [July 9th] and
heard of the death of the Prophets. Elder Kimball recorded he was
unwilling to believe it, though it struck him to the heart. They took cars
for Boston in the morning, where they stayed during the day, In the
evening they proceeded to New York.
Elder Wilford Woodruff was in Portland, Maine, and ready to step on
board of a steamer for Fox Islands, when he received the Boston Times
newspaper, containing an account of the death of the Prophets. He
immediately took cars and returned to Boston, stopping over night at
Scarborough.
Wednesday, 10.----Elder Willard Richards, Patriarch John Smith,
Elders Samuel H. Smith and W. W. Phelps, met in council in the council
chamber.
Elder Willard Richards wrote as follows:----
LETTER TO A. JONAS----ALL PEACE AT NAUVOO' `Nauvoo, July 10, 1844. A.
Jonas, Esq. Dear Sir,---Yours of the 6th, per Mr. Meetze, is received, and
I have only time to thank you for the information it contained, and all
your endeavors for the promotion of truth and justice, and can still give
you the fullest assurance that all is perfect peace at Nauvoo, calmly
waiting the fulfillment of Governor Ford's pledge to redeem the land from
blood by legal process. You can do much to allay the excitement of the
country in your travels, and the friends of peace will appreciate your
labors. Most respectfully, WILLARD RICHARDS.'
Elder Parley P, Pratt arrived at Nauvoo.
A committee of nine ladies, among whom were Mrs. Hyrum Smith, Mrs.
John Taylor, Mrs. Arthur Milliken and Mrs. W. W. Phelps, waited upon Mr.
R. D. Foster, and told him they would not bear his taunts and insults any
longer. They ordered him to leave the city forthwith, or he would be
visited by a stronger force tomorrow. These ladies having good reason to
believe that Foster was accessory to the murder of their relatives, the
Prophets, took the liberty of pursuing this course towards him.
Mr. Hiram Kimball obligated himself that Foster should leave before
morning, accordingly he got his team ready and took him out of the city
that evening.
We copy from the Neighbor:----
ELDER JOHN TAYLOR AND ITEMS OF THE MARTYR-TRAGEDY `Elder Taylor is
recovering as fast as can be expected. His wounds are doing well.
The senior editor of this paper, Mr. Taylor, at the horrible
assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith in Carthage jail, on the afternoon
of the 27th day of June, received three wounds in his left thigh and knee,
and one in his left wrist; besides which a fifth ball spent its force
against his watch in his left vest pocket. This ball, but for the timely
interference of this valuable watch, must have caused instant death, as it
would have passed directly into his lungs. This watch, though dreadfully
shattered, is a friend that points to the very moment when he stood
between life and death, the hands pointing to 5 o'clock, 10 minutes and 26
seconds.
While upon this subject, Mr. Taylor and his friends wish, through
this channel, to tender their thanks to Mr. Hamilton and family, and to
all who assisted him in any manner during his stay at Carthage, while
unable to be removed to his own home. Kindness, assistance, and the tender
offices of humanity in such times of deep distress, give the noble mind a
chance to appreciate help when it is needed, and to remember such friends
in future. Nor should the assistance rendered to lay out the bodies of the
Messrs. Smith, preparatory to their removal to Nauvoo, be forgotten.
Though the people of Carthage, under the excitement of the moment,
generally fled, yet those who did stay did all they could to forward the
bodies, as well as to make Mr. Taylor as comfortable as the circumstances
of the case would permit.
One thing further: In this awful tragedy, Dr. Willard Richards,
equally exposed to the shower of bullets which were fired into the room at
the door and windows, escaped unhurt, and while he would render
thanksgiving and praise to his God for this signal preservation of his
life, he would also return his grateful acknowledgments to the Messrs.
Hamilton and others, who rendered all the assistance in their power in
this awful hour of murder and woe at Carthage.'
Elders Brigham Young and Orson Pratt went from Boston to Lowell
Elders Kimball, Wight and William Smith, proceeded by railway from
New York to Philadelphia.
The Neighbor has the following notice:----
`THE PROPHET'---A NEW L. D. S. PUBLICATION `A well disposed newspaper
called The Prophet, was started in New York, in the month of May last. The
ruptures of our neighbors, and the murder of our best friends, have
prevented us from giving our readers timely notice. It is published by a
society for the promotion of truth, and we must say that in a city so
large as New York, if the people have virtue, holiness, and the kindred
spirits which have ever won the affections of humanity, they will sustain
the Prophet liberally. Nor should the country be less magnanimous: by
comparing opinions, and proving contrarieties, truth manifests itself.'
PUBLIC OPINION ON THE MURDER OF JOSEPH AND HYRUM SMITH FROM VARIOUS
NEWSPAPERS
We copy from the St. Louis Evening Gazette:----
`Public opinion of the press on the assassination of Joseph and Hyrum
Smith by a mob in the jail at Carthage, while under the sacred pledge of
the state for the protection of their lives.
`With reference to the recent bloody affair at Carthage, the O. S.
Democrat says:---
`From all the facts now before us, we regard these homicides as
nothing else than murder in cold blood---murder against the plighted faith
of the chief magistrate of Illinois---murder of a character so atrocious
and so unjustifiable as to leave the blackest stain on all its
perpetrators, their aiders, abettors, and defenders.'
The Republican pronounces the deed `unprovoked murder'.
The Reporter says:---`The conduct of the mob at Carthage cannot be
justified'.
The Reveille says:---`Joe Smith has been `Lynched' while under the
protection of the `Laws'.'
The New Era says:---`It was cruel and cowardly to murder the unarmed
prisoners when they had surrendered themselves, and were in custody of the
laws.'
In fact, the press of St. Louis denounces this bloody deed without a
dissenting voice.'
From the Lee County (Iowa) Democrat: `We also endorse the whole of
the sentiments of the St. Louis press, and say it was a premeditated
murder, and that the offenders ought to be ferreted out and dealt with
according to the strict sense of the law.'
From the Illinois State Register:---- JOSEPH SMITH, THE MORMON
PROPHET, AND HIS BROTHER, HYRUM, MURDERED IN PRISON `The following
particulars of the most disgraceful and cold-blooded murder ever committed
in a Christian land, is copied from an extra from the office of the Quincy
Herald. Rumors of the bloody deed reached this city several days ago, but
were not believed until Tuesday evening, when there was no further room
left for doubt. Next week we will have all the particulars. Every effort
will be made to bring the assassins to punishment.'
FROM THE QUINCY HERALD EXTRA OF SATURDAY `Governor Ford arrived in
this city this morning, much worn down by travel and fatigue, having left
Carthage yesterday. It is now certain that only Joe and Hyrum Smith are
killed, and they were murdered in cold blood.
It seems that while Governor Ford was absent from Carthage to Nauvoo,
for the purpose of ascertaining satisfactorily the strength of the Mormon
force, an excited mob assembled near Carthage, disfigured themselves by
painting their faces, and made a rush upon the jail where Joe and his
fellow prisoners were confined.
The guard placed by the governor to protect the jail were overpowered
by superior numbers, the doors of the jail forced, and Joe and Hyrum both
shot.
Hyrum was instantly killed by a ball, which passed through his head.
Joe was in the act of raising the window, when he was shot both from
without and within, and fell out of the window to the ground.
Richards, whom we supposed yesterday was dead, escaped unhurt. Mr.
Taylor, the editor of the Nauvoo Neighbor, was in the room with the Smiths
and received three balls in his leg, and one in his arm. He is not
considered dangerous. Three of the assailants were slightly wounded.
It will probably never be known who shot Joseph and Hyrum Smith, but
their murder was a cold-blooded, cowardly act, which will consign the
perpetrators, if discovered, to merited infamy and disgrace. They have
broken their pledges to the governor, disgraced themselves and the state
to which they belong. They have crimsoned their perfidy with blood.
The dead bodies of the Smiths were conveyed to Nauvoo, by order of
the governor yesterday. It was supposed by many, that the Mormons on
seeing them would break away from all restraints and commence a war of
extermination.
But nothing of the kind occurred. They received their murdered
friends in sorrow---laid down their arms and remained quiet. Colonel
Singleton and his company of 60 men are still in Nauvoo, and the Mormons
submitted to their authority.
The 300 that left our city yesterday on the Boreas are at present in
Warsaw. A man was knocked down with a musket in Warsaw yesterday, for
presuming to express disapprobation at the murder of the Smiths.'
From the Sangamon Journal:----THE MORMON DIFFICULTIES
`Notwithstanding all the rumors which are afloat, we are unable to state
anything very definite in relation to affairs at Nauvoo, or in the region
round about that city.
It is certain that the governor has called out some of the
neighboring militia; that bodies of armed men had collected without
waiting a call from the governor; that the governor had accepted the
services of militia at St. Louis under certain contingencies; that he had
demanded of Smith the state arms at Nauvoo; that it had been reported that
they were given up; that Smith and his council had given themselves up to
be tried by our laws for alleged offenses.
Thus far our news seems to be certain. Rumor says further, that on
Thursday of last week Joe Smith, Hyrum Smith and Dr. Richards were shot by
a mob at Carthage.
We are incredulous in regard to the truth of this rumor. We cannot
think, under the circumstances of the case, the excitement against these
men among the anti-Mormons, Governor Ford would have received them as
prisoners, to be tried under our laws, had pledged himself for their
protection, and then placed them in a situation where they would be
murdered. The rumor is too preposterous for belief. We wait with much
anxiety to hear the truth on this subject; and this feeling is general in
this community.'
From the Missouri Republican:----The Murders at Carthage,----A letter
from the editor, one from G. T. M. Davis, Esq., and a proclamation from
Governor Ford, give all the information which we have been able to collect
from the seat of civil commotion and murder in Illinois.
They were issued in an extra form yesterday morning, and are
transferred to our columns today for the benefit of our numerous readers
abroad.
All our information tends to fix upon the people concerned in the
death of the Smiths, the odium of perfidious, black-hearted, cowardly
murder---so wanton as to be without any justification---so inhuman and
treacherous as to find no parallel in savage life under any circumstances.
Governor Ford declares his intention to seek out the murderers; and
he owes it to his own honor and to that of the state, whose faith was most
grossly violated, never to cease his exertions for this purpose.
The Mormons, it will be seen, were quiet, and not disposed to commit
any acts of aggression; their enemies, on the other hand, were evidently
disposed to push them to extremities, and to force them from the state.
This feeling may be checked by the alacrity with which Governor
Ford's orders were being executed, but it will be some time before peace
and order can be restored---the disgrace of past acts cannot be wiped
out.'
The following extract of a letter from a highly respectable gentleman
to his friend in Nauvoo, we copy from the Nauvoo Neighbor:----
`Fair Haven, Ct. July 10, 1844. I have, by the papers, within a day
or two, been informed of the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. This is an
event which will be deeply lamented by all Mormons, and will appear,
probably, to those who are not Mormons, as the final overthrow of their
religious tenets.
I will, however, make the prediction that this diabolical butchery
makes more Mormons than the friendship of half the inhabitants in Illinois
could have done by their most devoted exertions.
The blood of saints is the seed of the church. It will be considered
by an extensive portion of the world that the Smiths have suffered
martyrdom for their religion, and their profoundest sympathies will be
aroused in favor of those believing the same creed.
The inflammatory appeals to the bloodthirsty passions of the
anti-Mormon populace will be universally condemned by the reflecting and
moral part of every community, and thousands will now examine your tenets,
who never thought of such a thing before.
Carthage and Warsaw will be denounced by the honorable, and the
indelible disgrace with which they now stand covered, will cause them to
be avoided by every person who has any regard to his personal safety.
It is now known here that the lazy speculators of Warsaw, and the
still lazier office drones at Carthage, cared nothing for Joe Smith
personally, or for his tenets either; but the prosperity of Nauvoo
increasing as it did, beyond any former parallel, even in the western
world, excited in their bosoms envy, hatred and all ungodliness.
This is the true secret of all their barbarous movements against
Mormonism; and they supposed by destroying the Smiths they should
extinguish their religion, disperse the Mormons, depopulating and
desolating Nauvoo. Their folly and wickedness will produce a result
exactly the reverse; Mormons will increase an hundredfold; they will, if
possible, be more devoutly attached to their religion; will concentrate
more closely together, for self-preservation, and their united industry
will produce such a city at Nauvoo as does not exist west of the
mountains.
From all accounts which have been published here, it does not appear
that the slightest resistance was made to the execution of the law, and
the inquiry is now made, what was all this clamor, excitement and military
parade for?
The editor of the Warsaw Signal can answer the question; and if he
had his deserts, it is probable no more unprincipled and inflammatory
addresses to an infuriated mob would ever emanate from his pen. Not that I
would wish any violence to him, but he should be tried by the laws of the
state, and see how far his course renders him accountable for the murders
which have been committed.
Nothing has ever given me greater gratification than the calm,
dignified submission to the laws shown at Nauvoo since the death of the
Smiths. This forbearance on your part is beyond all praise; let it
continue. Give not the shadow of a pretext for another appeal to popular
fury. The demons are foiled, and let them gnash their teeth in silence
over their disappointment.
The increase of population at Nauvoo can no more be prevented than
the Mississippi can be stopped in its course. Its triumph is inevitable,
because the engine by which it is to be accomplished is irresistible.
What earthly power has ever yet stood before the overpowering
energies of a religious creed? But when religion is protected by law, as
your religion ought to be, and will soon be, in Illinois, then such
advances will be made by the Mormons as have never been dreamed of by the
greatest enthusiast.
The editor of the Neighbor adds:----Upon this letter, let it be
remembered that the writer is not a Mormon or a western man, but a citizen
of Connecticut, loving law, liberty and life.'
From the Tompkins (N. Y.) Democrat, we extract the following:----`The
report that a battle had been fought between the Mormons and anti-Mormons,
in which some five hundred were slain, is all a hoax. Such vile statements
only serve to give strength to the Prophet's views. Indeed, we do not know
which has the worst effect on the community, the doctrines of Smith or the
ten thousand false rumors constantly put in circulation against him. One
thing is certain, his name will survive when those who grossly
misrepresent him have become blanks on the page of the future.'"
CHAPTER XV
CHAPTER OF MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS, PRESS EXCERPTS, AND MOVEMENTS
OF LEADING ELDERS OF THE CHURCH AT NAUVOO AND ELSEWHERE
`Tuesday, July 11, 1844.----Elder Willard Richards called upon Elder
Parley P. Pratt, likewise Brothers Samuel Russell, Hiram Kimball and
Stephen Markham; also upon Brother Elijah Fordham, to inquire about the
lumber for the Temple.
Elders Brigham Young and Orson Pratt traveled to Peterboro, for the
purpose of attending conference.
Elders Kimball, Wight and others went to Wilmington, and preached in
the evening: several saints from Chester county were present.
Elder Wilford Woodruff preached in Boston this evening, and
endeavored to console the saints who were mourning the loss of the
martyred Prophet and Patriarch.
Friday, 12.----President Marks consulted with William Clayton about
calling a meeting of the presidents of various quorums to appoint a
trustee-in-trust in behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints,
A council was held at 3 p. m.; but as Dr. Willard Richards and Bishop
Whitney considered it premature, the council was adjourned till Sunday
evening, the 14th.
Messrs. Bedell and Backenstos arrived in Nauvoo, and reported that
the governor had demanded the public arms at Warsaw, and was refused.
President Brigham Young spent the day with the brethren in Peterboro.
We learn from Elder Kimball's journal, that in company with Elder
Lyman Wight and delegates to the convention from Pennsylvania, Delaware
and Maryland, he proceeded to Baltimore. He and Brother Wight, hearing so
many contradictory reports concerning the death of the Prophets, felt very
anxious to obtain some correct information. They went into their closets
and prayed to the Lord to open the way whereby they might know the truth
concerning it. Immediately Elder Kimball went to the post office, and got
letters up to the 24th of June from his wife, informing him that
Presidents Joseph and Hyrum Smith had delivered themselves up into the
hands of their enemies to be tried, upon reading which they were
immediately satisfied that the Prophets were massacred.
Elder Wilford Woodruff wrote a letter of exhortation to the saints,
which was published in The Prophet.
Elder John E. Page wrote a long letter on Mormonism, which appeared
in the People's Organ, of Pittsburgh.
Saturday, 13.----Dr. Willard Richards proposed the organization of a
fishing company to help to supply the city of Nauvoo with food.
Elders Kimball and Wight returned to Wilmington, and from thence to
Philadelphia, where they read letters giving a particular account of the
martyrdom of their brethren.
Sunday, 14,----Meeting at the stand: Elder Parley P. Pratt preached.
Dr. Willard Richards proposed that the church postpone electing a
trustee until the Twelve returned, and called a special conference.
6 p. m. Several councilors came to the council chamber to investigate
the subject of choosing trustees, but decided to wait until the Twelve
arrived.
We extract the following from President Brigham Young's journal:----
EXCERPTS FROM PRESIDENT YOUNG'S JOURNAL `Friday, 12.---We held a
meeting in Peterboro in the evening, preparatory to the conference
tomorrow.
Saturday, 13.---Had a good time at conference all day. The brethren
were very glad to see us, and the Lord gave us many good things to say to
them. I preached to the saints and showed the organization and
establishment of the kingdom of God upon the earth: that the death of one
or a dozen could not destroy the priesthood, nor hinder the work of the
Lord from spreading throughout all nations.
Sunday, 14.---Held three meetings, ordained 28 elders. We enjoyed
ourselves well, and had an excellent conference.'
Elders Kimball and Wight went to meeting in Philadelphia, and read
the account of the massacre to the saints, who all felt very sorrowful,
and agreed to dress in mourning in token of their love and respect for the
martyred Prophets.
Elder Kimball recorded, `O Lord, how can we part with our dear
brethren----O Lord, save thy servants the Twelve.'
The saints in Boston met in the Franklin Hall; the house was crowded
to overflowing, and many could not get into the room. Numbers who had not
been in the habit of attending the meetings, came to see what course the
saints would pursue now their leaders were slain. Elder Wilford Woodruff,
being the only one of the Twelve in the city, addressed the saints during
the day, and also in the evening. He preached in the forenoon from Rev.,
ch. vi, 9, 10 and 11th verses; in the afternoon from Rev., ch. xiv, 6, 7
and 8th verses, and in the evening on the parable of the fig tree, as
recorded by St. Luke in ch. xxi; and, in connection, read some of the
revelations given through the martyred Prophet of our day. The Spirit of
the Lord rested powerfully upon the speaker and the saints, and their
hearts were comforted.
Sunday, 15.----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards, W. W. Phelps
and the bishops, with many brethren, assembled to organize a company of
fishermen to supply the city with fish; twenty-eight volunteered, with
eight boats and skiffs,
Isaac Higbee was appointed president, John S. Higbee and Peter Shirts
counselors.
The Times and Season has the following editorial:----
REVIEW OF THE MURDER AT CARTHAGE `General Joseph Smith, who was
murdered in cool blood, in Carthage jail, on Thursday, the 27th day of
June, was one of the best men that ever lived on the earth.
The work he has thus far performed, towards establishing pure
religion and preparing the way for the great gathering of Israel, in the
short space of twenty years, since the time when the angel of the Lord
made known his mission and gave him power to move the cause of Zion,
exceeds anything of the kind on record.
Without learning, without means, and without experience, he has met a
learned world, a rich century, a hard-hearted, wicked and adulterous
generation, with truth that could not be resisted, facts that could not be
disproved, revelations whose spirit had so much God in them that the
servants of the Lord could not be gainsaid or resisted, but, like the rays
of light from the sun, they have tinged everything they lit upon with a
lustre and livery which has animated, quickened and adorned.
The pages of General Smith's history, though his enemies never ceased
to persecute him and hunt for offenses against him, are as unsullied as
virgin snow; on about fifty prosecutions for supposed criminal offenses,
he came out of the legal fire, heated like Nebuchadnezzar's furnace, seven
times hotter than it was wont to be, without the smell of fire, or a
thread of his garments scorched.
His foes of the world and enemies of his own household, who have
sought occasions against him, in order secretly to deprive him of his
life, because his goodness, greatness and glory exceeded theirs, have a
poor excuse to offer the world for shedding his innocent blood, and no
apology to make to the Judge of all the earth at the day of judgment. They
have murdered him because they feared his righteousness.
His easy, good-natured way, allowing everyone was honest, drew around
him hypocrites, wicked and mean men, with the virtuous, and in the hour of
trouble or trial, when the wheat was cleansed by water, the light kernels
and smut rose upon the top of the water and had to be poured off, that the
residue might be clean; or, to be still plainer, when they went through
the machine for cleansing the grain, the chaff, light grain and smut, were
blown off among the rubbish.
False brethren, or to call them by their right name, `apostates',
have retarded the work more, and combined more influence to rob him of
life, than all Christendom; for they, having mingled in his greatness,
knew where and when to take advantage of his weakness.
Their triumph, however, is one that disgraces their state and nation,
ruins them in time and in eternity.
They cannot outgrow it, they cannot outlive it, and they cannot
out-die it, from him that winked at it to him that shot the fatal ball,
wherever there is moral honesty, humanity, love of life, liberty and the
pursuit of happiness, there the breath of indignation, the whisper of
`those murders', the story of mobocracy and the vengeance of God will
haunt the whole gang and their offspring and abettors with a fury like
Milton's gates of hell, `* * * grating harsh thunder.'
In thus descanting upon the glory of General Joseph Smith and the
cowardly disgrace of his assassins, let his noble-minded brother Hyrum
have no less honor shown him. He lived so far beyond the ordinary walk of
man, that even the tongue of the vilest slanderer could not touch his
reputation.
He lived godly and he died godly, and his murderers will yet have to
confess that it would have been better for them to have a millstone tied
to them, and they cast into the depths of the sea, and remain there while
eternity goes and eternity comes, than to have robbed that noble man of
heaven of his life.
If there be such a thing as the greatest and least crimes among the
archives of the better world, the wilful murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith
will be first and worst, without forgiveness in this world or the world to
come, `for no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.'
The Savior said, woe unto the world because of offenses, but offenses
must needs come; but woe unto him by whom they come:
Prophets have been sent, according to the sacred history, which all
enlightened nations use as a guide of morality here, or for a rule to
obtain heaven hereafter, to instruct and lead the people according to the
pure purposes of God, and yet from Cain down to two or three hundred
Americans, Illinoisans, Missourians, Christians, even freemen, the lives
of mostly all these good men, the servants of God, not omitting his own
Son, have been taken from them by those who professed to be the most wise,
enlightened, intelligent and religious, (that is nationally) that were on
the earth when the hellish deeds were done.
But what has the next generation said? Ah! time thou art older and
abler to tell the story than they that did the solemn act. No wonder the
heathen nations will be God's in the day of his power; they have not
killed the Prophets.
When General Smith went to Carthage, just as the cavalry met him for
the purpose of obtaining the state arms, he said to a friend, `I am going
like a lamb to the slaughter; but I am calm as a summer's morning: I have
a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward all men: I shall die
innocent.'
Now ye great men who boast of great wisdom, what think ye of the
Prophet's last prediction? How glorious! How mild! How God-like! No wonder
the sympathies of all honest men are kindled in his behalf; the goodness
of his deeds merit them.
The want of a perfect knowledge of the servants of God, of the Son of
God, in all ages, down to this last, horrid, heart-sickening butchery of
those two unoffending American freemen, must have been the great first
cause of taking life contrary to the law of God or man.
Leaving religion out of the case, where is the lover of his country,
and his posterity, that does not condemn such an outrageous murder, and
will not lend all his powers, energies and influence to bring the
offenders to justice and judgment?
Every good man will do it when he remembers that these two innocent
men were confined in jail for a supposed crime, deprived of any weapons to
defend themselves, had the pledged faith of the state of Illinois, by
Governor Ford, for their protection, and were then shot to death, while
with uplifted hands they gave such signs of distress as would have
commanded the interposition and benevolence of savages or pagans.
They were both Masons in good standing.
Ye brethren of `the mystic tie', what think ye! Where are our good
Masters Joseph and Hyrum? Is there a pagan, heathen or savage nation on
the globe that would not be moved on this great occasion, as the trees of
the forest are moved by a mighty wind? Joseph's last exclamation was, `O
Lord my God'.
If one of these murderers, their abettors or accessories before or
after the fact, are suffered to cumber the earth without being dealt with
according to law, what is life worth, and what is the benefit of laws? and
more than all, what is the use of institutions which savages would honor,
where civilized beings murder without cause or provocation?
Will the Americans look over the vast concerns that must, sooner or
later, touch their welfare at home and abroad, and exalt or disgrace them
among the kingdoms of the great family of man, and learn whether anarchy,
mobbery and butchery are not swiftly hurrying the constituted authorities
of our country into irretrievable ruin, while the inhabitants of the land
must sink into wretchedness, bloodshed, revenge and woe?
Elder John Taylor and Dr. Willard Richards, who were in the jail at
the time, innocently, as friends of these men, have only to thank God that
their lives were spared.
Elder Taylor was wounded with four bullets, and a fifth ball, which,
had it not been for his watch in his left vest pocket, would have passed
into his vitals and destroyed his life instantly.
This memorable and very valuable watch saved his life, and will
remain with its hands permanently pointing to `5 o'clock, 16 minutes and
26 seconds', as the moment when so small a machine interposed between time
and eternity.
Dr. Richards was not wounded by a single ball, though one passed so
near his ear as to leave a mark.
If such scenes do not awaken the best feelings of freemen for
personal safety, what will? We pause! solemnly pause for the opinion of
millions, because all are interested; life is the last boon, all is blank
without it, death blots the rest, and where is man?
To conclude, if the good people of our common country, and our common
world, do not arise with a union of feeling and energy to help to wash off
the blood of these two innocent men from Hancock county, from the plighted
faith of Illinois, from the boasted and wide-spreading fame of the United
States, and from the dignity of our globe, then let all but the righteous
be smitten with a curse; but, methinks I see a `union of all honest men',
aside from religion, stand forth to magnify the law, who will never rest
till justice and judgment have made the offenders, abettors and
accessories, whether apostates, officers or mere men, atone for the
innocent blood of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.'
The following was written by the undersigned members of the council
[i. e. of the Twelve]:----
LETTER TO THE SAINTS ABROAD Dear Brethren,---On hearing of the
martyrdom of our beloved Prophet and Patriarch, you will doubtless need a
word of advice and comfort, and look for it from our hands.
We would say, therefore, first of all, be still and know that the
Lord is God, and that he will fulfil all things in his own due time, and
not one jot or tittle of all his purposes and promises shall fail.
Remember, REMEMBER that the priesthood and the keys of power are held
in eternity as well as in time, and, therefore, the servants of God who
pass the veil of death are prepared to enter upon a greater and more
effectual work, in the speedy accomplishment of the restoration of all
things spoken of by his holy prophets.
Remember that all the prophets and saints who have existed since the
world began, are engaged in this holy work, and are yet in the vineyard,
as well as the laborers of the eleventh hour, and are all pledged to
establish the kingdom of God on the earth, and to give judgment unto the
saints: therefore, none can hinder the rolling on of the eternal purposes
of the great Jehovah.
And we have now every reason to believe that the fulfillment of his
great purposes are much nearer than we had supposed, and that not many
years hence we shall see the kingdom of God coming with power and great
glory to our deliverance.
As to our country and nation, we have more reason to weep for them
than for those they have murdered, for they are destroying themselves and
their institutions, and there is no remedy; and as to feelings of revenge,
let them not have place for one moment in our bosoms, for God's vengeance
will speedily consume to that degree that we would fain be hid away and
not endure the sight.
Let us then humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God, and
endeavor to put away all our sins and imperfections as a people and as
individuals, and to call upon the Lord with the spirit of grace and
supplication, and wait patiently on him until he shall direct our way.
Let no vain and foolish plans or imaginations scatter us abroad and
divide us asunder as a people, to seek to save our lives at the expense of
truth and principle, but rather let us live or die together and in the
enjoyment of society and union.
Therefore, we say, let us haste to fulfil the commandments which God
has already given us. Yea, let us haste to build the Temple of our God,
and to gather together thereunto, our silver and our gold with us, unto
the name of the Lord, and then we may expect that he will teach us of his
ways, and we will walk in his paths.
We would further say, that in consequence of the great rains which
have deluged the western country, and, also, in consequence of persecution
and excitement, there has been but little done here, either in farming or
building, this season; therefore, there is but little employment and but
little means of subsistence at the command of the saints in this region;
therefore, let the saints abroad and others who feel for our calamities
and wish to sustain us, come on with their money and means without delay,
and purchase lots and farms, and build buildings and employ hands, as well
as to pay their tithings into the Temple and their donations to the poor.
We wish it distinctly understood abroad that we greatly need the
assistance of every lover of humanity, whether members of the church or
otherwise, both in influence and in contributions for our aid, succor and
support.
Therefore, if they feel for us, now is the time to show their
liberality and patriotism towards a poor and persecuted, but honest and
industrious people.
Let the elders who remain abroad continue to preach the gospel in its
purity and fullness, and to bear testimony of the truth of these things
which have been revealed for the salvation of this generation. [Signed]
PARLEY P. PRATT, WILLARD RICHARDS, JOHN TAYLOR, W. W. PHELPS. Nauvoo, July
15, 1844.'
Elder Jedediah M. Grant returned to Philadelphia. Two weeks since he
left Nauvoo, and reported that alI was quiet and peace in the city since
the burial of the martyrs.
LAMENTATION Of a Jew Among the Afflicted and Mourning Sons and
Daughters of Zion, at the Assassination of the Two Chieftains in Israel,
Joseph and Hyrum Smith,
`Blessed the people knowing the shout of Jehovah, In the light of his
countenance they will walk. how can we, a people in sackcloth, Open our
lips before thee? They have rejected and slain our leaders, Thine anointed
ones. Our eyes are dim, our hearts heavy; no place of refuge being left.
Redeem the people that in thee only trusts; There is none to stand between
and inquire; Thou art our helper, The refuge of Israel in time of trouble.
O look in righteousness upon thy faithful servants, Who have laid bare
their lives unto death, Nor withholding their bodies; Being betrayed by
false brethren, and their lives cut off, Forbidding their will before
thine: Having sanctified thy great name, Never polluting it; Ready for a
sacrifice;----standing in the breach, Tried, proved and found perfect. To
save the blood of the fathers; Their children, brothers, and sisters;
Adding theirs unto those who are gone before them; Sanctifying thy holy
and great name upon the earth; Cover and conceal not their blood. Give ear
unto their cries until thou lookest And shewest down from heaven-taking
vengeance And avenging their blood----avenging thy people and thy law,
According to thy promises made Unto our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac
and Jacob. Hasten the acceptable and redeeming year; Shadday: remember
unto us thy covenants: All this heaviness has reached us; Can any one be
formed to declare What has befallen us? All this we bear, and the name of
our God We will not forget, nor deny, The `Hebrews' God' he is called,
Thou art clothed with righteousness, But we are vile. Come not in judgment
with us. Before thee nothing living is justified by their works, But be
with us as thou wast with our fathers, Help thou, O Father; unto thee We
will lift our souls, Our hearts in our hands; We look to heaven, Lifting
our eyes unto the mountains, From whence cometh our help. Turn away thine
anger, That we be not spoiled. O return and leave a blessing behind
thee.'
Tuesday, 16.----William Clayton finished measuring the last raft of
lumber for the Temple, from the pineries, amounting to 87,732 feet.
The following was received by Dr. Willard Richards:----
LETTER REPORTING THREATENING PORTENTS AGAINST NAUVOO `De Kalb,
Hancock Co., Ill., July 1, 1844. [In confidence] Dr. Richards. Dear
Sir,----I hope the subject upon which this communication is written will
be a sufficient apology for the privilege I have taken in addressing you,
with whom I have not had the pleasure of an acquaintance.
I wish to apprise you that reports are in circulation, which no doubt
are true, that the Warsaw and Green Plains mobocrats are making strong
exertions to raise forces sufficient to mob and drive the people of your
city from their present residences.
I think you should keep a steady lookout, for it seems that the
cold-hearted murder of Generals Joseph and Hyrum Smith in Carthage jail
has not satisfied the bloodthirsty dispositions of those demons, but they
desire to prosecute their wretched purposes still further.
I, as one of General Deming's staff, have used my influence against
calling out a large force to be stationed at Carthage, fearing that some
might be influenced by those mobocrats to join them in their wretched
purpose, for I have no idea they can get forces enough to leave their
homes, neither in Illinois nor Missouri, for that purpose, to overcome
you.
If we could have four or five hundred troops stationed at Carthage,
of the right sort, that could be depended on, to suppress mobs, I should
like it, but, fearing the influence of those desperadoes might cause them
to disobey all orders and join the mob against you, I think it best not to
risk it.
The murder of Generals Joseph and Hyrum Smith is deprecated by the
community, almost at large, that is, those who are not lost to the
principles of humanity; and there seems to be a general feeling of
sympathy resting on the public mind.
I was pleased to hear of the prudent course that your people resolved
to pursue, in acting only on the defensive and abiding the law, which is
on your side. In haste, yours, etc., THOS. H. OWEN.'
To which Dr. Willard Richards replied as follows:----
DECLARED INTENTION OF THE CHURCH TO TAKE NO PART IN THE TRIAL OF THE
MURDERERS OF THE PROPHETS `Nauvoo, July 16, 1844. Sir,---I am sorry that
there has been delay which caused your letter to arrive so late to hand,
and I feel thankful for the very kind and sympathetic manner in which you
express yourself towards us as a people, and shall be very thankful if you
will continue your favors to me whenever anything may occur, and you may
depend upon my doing the same to yourself.
In regard to the assassination of the Generals Smith, we do not
intend to take any action in the case whatever, but leave ourselves
entirely in the hands of the governor and the majesty of the law, to mete
out just and retributive justice in the matter.
You may rest perfectly assured that we never did act on the
offensive, or against the law, but shall continue the same course, which
appears to have given you so much satisfaction, and act entirely on the
defensive, and abide the law. In haste, sir, I remain yours, etc., WILLARD
RICHARDS. Thos. H. Owen, Esq.'
Elder Wilford Woodruff wrote the following:----
WOODRUFF'S LETTER TO BRIGHAM YOUNG---REPORTING THE PROPHETS' DEATH
`Boston, July 16, 1844. Elders Brigham Young and Orson Pratt. Dear
Brethren.---I hasten to inform you that I returned to this city on hearing
the report of the death of Joseph and Hyrum, expecting to see you. I have
waited a number of days in deep suspense, to obtain word I could rely on.
This morning two letters were put into my hands by Sister Phelps, one
from Erastus Snow and one from John E. Page of Pittsburgh, both confirming
the report of the death of Joseph and Hyrum---they were murdered in
Carthage jail.
It is not for me to counsel you, but I would ask if it would not be
well for you to come direct to Boston, and hold a council with the Twelve
and decide what course to pursue. Things are still very critical in the
west; we don't know where it will end.
I spent the Sabbath here, spoke three times, comforted the saints aIl
I could and had a good time, The saints bear the shock well. I am well and
in good spirits. I do not know where I can address my letters to reach
you. I shall write to Lowell, Peterboro and Bradford, hoping they may
reach you in one of those places.
I shall go immediately to Farmington, New Haven, Ct., and New York;
if you wish to write to me, direct to Farmington, Ct. Yours in the kingdom
of God WILFORD WOODRUFF.'
President Young having received Elder Woodruff's letter at Peterboro,
started for Boston, but on arriving at Lowell remained all night.
Wednesday, 17.----Mrs. Emma Smith, in company with Messrs. Woods and
Wasson, went to Carthage for letters of administration on the estate of
her deceased husband, Joseph Smith.
The following is from Elder Woodruff's Journal:----
EXCERPT `Elder Brigham Young arrived in Boston this morning. I walked
with him to 57 Temple Street, and called upon Sister Vose. Brother Young
took the bed and gave vent to his feelings in tears. I took the big chair,
and veiled my face, and for the first time gave vent to my grief and
mourning for the Prophet and Patriarch of the church, Joseph and Hyrum
Smith, who were murdered by a Gentile mob. After being bathed in a flood
of tears I felt composed Elder Young left the city. I spent the night at
Brother Phelps.'
The following is extracted from the St. Louis Transcript, taken from
the report of the editor of the Republican:----
REPORTS OF MOVEMENTS IN ILLINOIS OBSERVED FROM WARSAW `On our return
we stopped at Warsaw, where the state commissioners were joined by Colonel
Wood, the mayor of Quincy, and Mr. Conyers. These gentlemen had returned
from Nauvoo through Carthage, and had been laboring to establish peace
between the parties.
The people of Hancock county, however, appear to be averse to any
compromise short of the removal of the Mormons from the county. They
assert that it is now absolutely necessary to peace and quietness that
either the Mormons or citizens quit the county, and that sooner or later
one must go, even if force be necessary to accomplish it.
Mr. Jonas, one of the commissioners, addressed the citizens of
Warsaw, and called upon them to say whether they would support the
governor in enforcing the law and upholding the Constitution, and they
unanimously refused to give the pledge.
The same evening a Mr. Skinner of Carthage, who professed to speak in
the name of the citizens of Hancock, uttered the same sentiment. He
deprecated, as impossible, the idea of settlement if the Mormons were to
remain.
A committee of the citizens waited upon Governor Ford, informing him
of their fixed conviction that it was necessary one of the parties should
leave the county, and desiring him to decide.
The governor replied that it was not for him to decide such a
question, or to order any body of citizens, whether Mormons or
anti-Mormons, out of the county or state.
From the feeling evinced by the most active in the anti-Mormon ranks,
we came to the conclusion that nothing but a dread of consequences would
prevent further outbreaks. The flame has been smothered for a time, but
the fire has not been quenched, and slight causes may make it burst forth
more fiercely than before.
Governor Ford has a most arduous duty to perform. Of his ability to
discharge it we will not now speak. At our latest dates he was still at
Quincy, and avowed the intention of maintaining the ascendancy of the law
at all hazards. He has dismissed all the troops, and they have returned to
their homes.'"
CHAPTER XVI
THE MOVEMENTS OF THE APOSTLES AND OTHER LEADING BRETHREN IN THE EAST
AND AT NAUVOO--- IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION FROM GOVERNOR FORD
"Thursday, July 18th 1844.----No rain since the night of the 29th
ult., of any moment: excessively warm. Thermometer 92 1/2 o F. After
sunset the clouds gathered dense and black, accompanied by lightning,
which became so constant, and the flashes so near each other, as to be
almost one continued flash, lighter than noonday; the rain descended in
torrents, the wind tremendous, prostrating many trees and some houses.
The following is from Elder Woodruff's Journal:----
EXCERPTS `President Brigham Young arrived in the city of Boston, also
Elders Orson Hyde, Heber C. Kimball and Orson Pratt. We met together in
council, and agreed to counsel the elders and brethren having families at
Nauvoo, to return immediately to them. Elder Hyde advertised that he would
preach on the subject of the massacre of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the
Prophet and Patriarch of the church.
According to appointment the saints and friends met in a hall in
Washington Street. Elder Hyde preached from words in chapter xxiv of St.
Matthew, 9th to 14th verse, and concluded with the following remarks:---
DISCOURSE OF ELDER ORSON HYDE AT WASHINGTON, D. C. `In consequence of
the death of the Prophets, the editors seem to get the spirit of prophecy,
and say the work is done, and will stop and die; but, as I am in the midst
of the prophetic editors, like Saul
I catch some of the spirit of prophecy, and so I will prophesy that
instead of the work dying, it will be like the mustard stock that was
ripe, that a man undertook to throw out of his garden, and scattered seed
all over it, and next year it was nothing but mustard. It will be so by
shedding the blood of the Prophets---it will make ten saints where there
is one now.
Some said that he would be president [i. e. of the U. S.], but is now
dead; now, what will he do? The Revelator says, `He that overcometh will I
give power over the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron'; I
don't know but he may hold the keys of the plagues that are to be poured
out in the last days upon this and other nations.
Angels appeared anciently to John, who were his fellow servants, the
Prophets. Joseph may appear in this day to his brethren,
This gospel of the kingdom must be preached in all the world for a
testimony, then shall the end come; though they should be persecuted, if
they endured to the end, they should be saved.
This generation speak much about the clouds and weather; they discern
the face of the sky, but why can they not discern the signs of the times?
The fig trees are leafing, and all things indicate the second advent of
Christ.'
REMARKS OF BRIGHAM YOUNG Elder Brigham Young arose, and said he felt
disposed to add his testimony; be of good cheer. The testimony is not in
force while the testator liveth; when he died it was in force; so it is
with Joseph.
On the Day of Pentecost there were but 120 of the saints, but at that
time there were added 3,000 souls. When God sends a man to do a work, all
the devils in hell cannot kill him until he gets through his work; so with
Joseph, he prepared all things, gave the keys to men on the earth, and
said, `I may soon be taken from you',"
The following Epistle of the Twelve was published in the Prophet:----
AN EPISTLE OF THE APOSTLES TO THE SAINTS `Boston, July 18, 1844. To
the Elders and Saints Scattered Abroad, Greeting. Dear Brethren,---We take
this method to notify you that the advice and counsel of the Twelve is,
that all the brethren who have families in the west should return to them
as soon as convenient, and that all the churches should remain humble and
watch unto prayer, and follow the teachings that have been given them by
the servants of God, and leave all things in the hands of God: all will be
right; the name of the Lord will be glorified and his work will prosper.
And we would warn the saints in all the world against receiving the
teachings of any man or set of men who come professing to be elders of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who preach any doctrine
contrary to the plain and holy principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ
which have been delivered unto them.
We wish to see all the authorities of the church residing at Nauvoo,
who at this time may be absent, such as the presidents of the different
quorums, high priests, high council, seventies and bishops, that we may
meet them in council as soon as convenient, as we expect to return
immediately to Nauvoo.
Dear brethren, we are sensible that the account of the death of the
Prophet and Patriarch of the church will be painful to your hearts: it is
to ours. We feel and mourn their loss, but they have sealed their
testimony with their blood; they have not counted their lives as dear unto
themselves as the lives of the church; they have died in the Lord and
their works will follow them.
The eyes of the Lord are upon those who have shed the blood of the
Lord's anointed, and he will judge them with a righteous judgment. Let the
saints cultivate a meek and quiet spirit, and all things shall in the end
work together for your good.
By order of the Quorum of the Twelve, [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG,
President, WILFORD WOODRUFF, Clerk.'
We copy from the Prophet:----
WARNING AGAINST FALSE DOCTRINES `Mr. Editor,---I am requested to say
to the saints, through the Prophet, by the counsel of the Twelve, that
whereas certain strange doctrines have been taught and practiced in Boston
and elsewhere, by men claiming higher authority than the Twelve,---
This is, therefore, to warn you, in the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that you give no heed to men making these high pretensions, when
they teach you things that are not in accordance with principles which you
know to be correct.
And we would seriously caution all men to beware how they offer
strange fire upon the altars of pure and innocent hearts, lest that flame
consume them, root and branch, in an unexpected hour; for the authorities
of God's house are not to be rode over by any man, and he escape without
the rod.
A ship that carries more sail than her ballast will admit of, will
surely capsize when the storm strikes her. This is a figure, and let it be
remembered. Yours truly, ORSON HYDE.'
Friday, 19.----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards, John Taylor
and W. W. Phelps spent the afternoon in council.
Elder Kimball went to Salem, and preached to the saints in the
evening.
Saturday, 20.----Elders Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball spent the
day together in the city of Boston. Elders Orson Hyde and Orson Pratt left
for New York, and Elder Wilford Woodruff for Connecticut.
Sunday, 21.----Meeting at the stand. Elder Parley P. Pratt preached
from the Book of Mormon quoting from Moroni, `Widows mourning for their
husbands'.
Afternoon.----The sacrament was administered. Elders Pratt, Cahoon
and Richards spoke.
Elders Young and Kimball preached to the saints in Boston during the
day and evening; congregations very attentive.
Sunday, 22.----The following is from Governor Thomas Ford:----
LETTER OF GOVERNOR FORD TO WILLARD RICHARDS AND W. W. PHELPS `Quincy,
July 17, 1844. [Confidential] Gentlemen,---I have just returned from St.
Louis, I should have gone on directly to Nauvoo, but I was aware that a
visit to your place at this time would certainly be misrepresented by the
public. I want very much to see some of you solely on the business of the
late outrages at Carthage.
The mode of proceeding to be adopted is a matter for careful
consideration. I wish to see some of you to consult on that one subject
alone. Can one of you come down? If so, come immediately, or let me know.
I am, most respectfully, Your obedient servant, [Signed] THOMAS FORD. Dr.
Willard Richards, W. W. Phelps, Esq.'
To which the annexed was sent in reply:----
REPLY OF RICHARDS AND PHELPS `Nauvoo, July 22, 1844. [Confidential]
His Excellency Governor Ford. Sir,---We have, at this late hour, received
your letter of the 17th inst., and would be gratified with an interview,
agreeably to your Excellency's request; but the murder of our best men
makes our time precious, and compels us to forego the interview.
We have delegated our friend, Mr. Orson Spencer, one of the aldermen
of our city, to meet your Excellency on the arrival of the morning boat,
answer any queries, and attend to all necessary business, having the
fullest confidence in his ability and integrity to discharge the mission
to your Excellency's satisfaction and the best interest of our bleeding
and long-loved country. We are, sir, most respectfully, Your obedient
servants, [Signed] WILLARD RICHARDS, W. W. PHELPS.
Sister Leonora Taylor wrote as follows:----
LEONORA TAYLOR'S WOMANLY LETTER TO GOVERNOR FORD `Nauvoo, July 22,
1844. To His Excellency Thomas Ford. Sir,---The peculiarity of my
situation will, I hope, plead my excuse for troubling your Excellency on
the present occasion.
Mr. Taylor, who was severely wounded in the jail at Carthage, is
still ill, and obliged to be lifted in and out of bed; his wounds are
slowly healing, and we hope he will finally get well, if suffered to do
so. But, sir, I am sorry to say the murderers and mobbers are still at
large in our neighborhood; as there has been no steps taken to bring them
to justice, they have taken fresh courage and held meetings to carry out
their work of destruction. I have been told they have sent messengers to
Missouri to collect all the force they can, to come and exterminate the
Mormons after harvest.
I have enclosed your Excellency a communication sent Mr. Taylor
yesterday, which is a sample of many that are daily coming in. He does not
know of my writing this letter. Nothing but the urgency of the case could
have induced me to remind your Excellency of your promise to bring the
murderers to justice. If a step of that kind is not taken soon, I much
fear that it cannot benefit us as a people.
We are without arms, in a great measure, having delivered them up at
your Excellency's request, and we are forbid to stand even in our own
defense. In this peculiar position, without resources, we can only look to
your Excellency for defense, to you, sir, for protection;
and if it is not granted, we must be murdered in cold blood.
My feelings as a wife, and mother of helpless children, together with
the afflictions of an injured people, all constrain me to beseech of you
to exert the power and authority which the people and God has given you,
in the cause of the oppressed. You shall have our prayers, that wisdom may
be given you from on high to act in this case to the glory of God, your
own honor and that of the state We live in.
Your Excellency was warned of our brethren's danger, who were
murdered, but could not believe that men were so base and degraded. The
same men are now plotting our destruction.
As an individual who feels herself injured, and also in behalf of an
oppressed, injured and persecuted people, I again beg your official
interference. Your Excellency cannot now be mistaken in the men nor their
design; I beseech you then, for the honor of our bleeding country, for the
sake of suffering innocence and the cause of humanity, by the wounds of my
husband and the blood of those murdered victims, to use prompt measures
for our protection and the bringing to justice of those murderers.
Sincerely praying that you, sir, may become a terror to evildoers and
the praise of those that do well, with great respect I have the honor to
be Your Excellency's humble servant, LEONORA TAYLOR.'
Elder Wilford Woodruff went to Farmington, Ct., and spent the night
at his father's house He ordained his father a high priest.
Tuesday, 23.----10 a. m. Elder Orson Spencer went down on the Osprey
to Quincy, to wait upon the governor.
Elders Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball spent the day in Boston.
They attended meeting in the evening and ordained thirty-two elders,
Elder Woodruff parted with his father and mother at Farmington, and
proceeded to New York.
Wednesday, 24.----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards, W. W.
Phelps, George Miller and L. Woodworth met in council. They anointed and
administered to Elder Samuel H. Smith, who was very sick.
Elder Phelps received the following communication from the
governor:----
IMPORTANT AND CONFIDENTIAL LETTER OF GOVERNOR FORD TO ELDER W. W.
PHELPS "Quincy, July 22, 1844. Sir,---On Thursday last I wrote to Dr.
Richards and yourself, requesting you to come or send some person to me at
this place, to confer with me in relation to the time and mode of
proceeding against the murderers of the Messrs. Smith; and I therein
stated that I would have come to Nauvoo for that purpose were it not for
the certainty that my motives and objects for so doing would be
misinterpreted. As none of you have come, and have probably not received
my letter, I have concluded to write you again and send this letter by
special messenger.
In this letter I will say to you what I intended to say in a personal
conference. In the beginning, then, you must allow me to say that my
position forbids that I should be a partisan on either side of your
unhappy controversy.
I may, for aught I know, have stern duties to perform in relation to
both parties. This, however, will depend on which side may be the
aggressor. Thus far, since the death of the Smiths, your people have
behaved well; much better than could have been expected under the
circumstances, and much better than the opposite party.
I anxiously hope that they may have the grace to continue in the same
line of conduct.
An unresisting, passive, peaceable, but defensive course on your
parts, will do much to disarm prejudices in the surrounding country. That
such prejudices do exist in the minds of the people you know as well as I,
though you may not be fully aware of their extent, or the ferocity which
they engender.
If I speak of those prejudices and the causes of them, I do not wish
you to misunderstand me, as some of you did on a former occasion, and
suppose that I am speaking my own opinions and feelings.
I say now, once for all, that I have nothing to do with those
prejudices further than as a practical man; they obtrude themselves on my
consideration, as presenting obstacles to me in the discharge of my
official duty. The more prejudice and bad feeling which is gotten up
against your people, whether by their own imprudence or the malice of
their enemies, the more difficult it is for me to do anything effectually
to protect either party according to law.
There are, I am informed, some few inflammatory and hot-blooded
individuals amongst you, who, by their imprudence and rashness, continue
to give cause for those prejudices, and, of course, by so doing, continue
to involve you all in a common danger; I speak of the danger of a mob.
I am also informed that most of you entertain the opinion that there
has been a great and universal reaction in the public mind since the death
of the Smiths.
On this subject I desire to tell you the naked truth. I am aware that
you scarcely ever hear the truth, as to public sentiment abroad, from
those who visit you in your city. The complaisance of such persons, and
their desire to please, will induce them to omit the statement of
disagreeable truths, and to say such things only as are pleasing and
complimentary. You are bound, as men of sense, to receive all such
statements with a great deal of allowance.
On my part, without desiring to please any of you, or to conciliate
your favor, but certainly without any design to insult your misfortunes,
and in a pure spirit of friendly concern for the peace and safety of all
who repose under the shade of our political fig tree, I desire to state to
you frankly, candidly and thoroughly, what I do know on this subject.
The naked truth then is, that most well-informed persons condemn in
the most unqualified manner the mode in which the Smiths were put to
death, but nine out of every ten of such accompany the expression of their
disapprobation by a manifestation of their pleasure that they are dead.
The disapproval is most unusually cold and without feeling. It is a
disapproval which appears to be called for, on their part, by decency, by
a respect for the laws and a horror of mobs, but does not flow warm from
the heart,
The unfortunate victims of this assassination were generally and
thoroughly hated throughout the country, and it is not reasonable to
suppose that their death has produced any reaction in the public mind
resulting in active sympathy; if you think so, you are mistaken.
Most that is said on the subject is merely from the teeth out; and
your people may depend on the fact, that public feeling is now, at this
time, as thoroughly against them as it has ever been.
I mention this, not for the purpose of insulting your feelings, but
to show you clearly how careful your people ought to be in future to avoid
all causes of quarrel and excitement, and what little reliance could be
placed on any militia force which I could send in your favor.
I ought, perhaps, to qualify what I have said, by remarking that but
few persons from the surrounding counties could now be procured to join a
mob force against you, without further cause of excitement to be
ministered by some misguided imprudence of your people. But what I mean to
say, and to say truly, is, that in the present temper of the public mind I
am positively certain that I cannot raise a militia force in the state who
would be willing to fight on your side, or to hazard their lives to
protect you from an attack of your enemies.
The same state of things exists in relation to any force which might
be ordered to arrest the murderers. If troops should be ordered for that
purpose, I would expect that they would behave as the militia did in the
late Philadelphia riots. The militia in that case sympathized with the
native party and against their opponents. It was an unpopular service, and
rather than fight they suffered themselves to be defeated and driven from
the field.
It is true that I might call upon the Mormons themselves, and then I
would have a reliable force. This, however, would be a dangerous
experiment, and would, in my mind, inevitably lead to civil war, the
result of which no man can foresee.
I think I may safely say, that if the Nauvoo Legion should be called
out against the old citizens, the crimes which are sought to be punished
would be instantly forgotten in the general and burning indignation which
would be kindled.
Men would rally to their assistance who would otherwise be neutral.
Your Legion has ever been regarded with a jealous eye; the arming and
drilling of your people, with such exceeding industry. in a season of
peace, (not wrong in itself,) has been looked upon by the great body of
the people with suspicion, and as intended in due time for the subversion
of the public liberty: in the beginning you would have been much better
without it. If your people had never made any military pretensions, no
military feeling would ever have been aroused against you.
This much I hope you will consider has been said from a friendly
motive, and for the further purpose of showing you what a dangerous
experiment it would be, and how well calculated to excite a civil war, in
which your city might be utterly destroyed, if I should attempt to call
out the hated Legion against the old citizens.
You may be disposed to ask, What use is there for law and government
if these things be so? I answer you, that cases like the present do not
seem to be fully provided for by our Constitutions; they were not
anticipated to occur,
Upon the first institution of our governments, it was a season of
internal peace and union among our people. The population was homogeneous,
and all agreed together as brothers. It was supposed that the great body
of the people would be always willingly submissive to the laws which they
themselves had made. It was not foreseen that great and hostile parties
would soon spring up and combine in large numbers to set the law at
defiance.
A voluntary submission and obedience was supposed as the basis of
government, for this reason no adequate provision was made in our state
constitutions for coercing this submission, when the laws were to be
trampled upon by the concerted action of large numbers.
The states are prohibited from maintaining standing armies; the only
military force at their command, without aid from the general government,
is the militia; and, as I have already shown you, this force can only be
relied on to do effectual service where that service is popular and jumps
with their inclinations.
For this same reason, I must beg leave to say that a party, as in
your case; which is the object of popular odium, cannot be too circumspect
in their behavior, so as to give no color to the hatred of your enemies.
`Truth is great and will prevail',
From this you may be assured that if the conduct of your people shall
be uniformly peaceably honest and submissive to the laws, even if they
have to bear persecution for a season, such conduct must result in
dissipating the unhappy prejudices which exist against you.
Truth and candor, however, compel me to say that the Mormons have not
always acted in such a manner as if they intended to avoid the creation of
prejudices.
The pretensions of your municipal court, the unheard of description
of ordinances passed by your city council, the assault on Mr. Bagby, the
attempt to kidnap persons from Missouri, the formal destruction of a
printing office and the general tone of arrogance and defiance of some of
your leaders, were well calculated to inflame the public mind against you.
I think that I have considered this difficult subject in every
possible point of view. I am afraid to rely on the militia in the present
temper of the public mind. To call on the Nauvoo Legion would be suicidal
to any effort as pacification of existing troubles, and for that reason
would fail to bring about an enforcement of the laws.
If the laws are to be enforced at all in your county, out of the
ordinary way by courts alone, it must be done by a force which is
indifferent as to both parties.
To call in one party to put down and subdue the other, would lead to
the most disastrous consequences; all the pride of conquest and victory;
all the shame of defeat by, and submission to an adversary; all the fury
of unconquerable hate and exasperated feeling would necessarily be mingled
with the contest, and render it bloody and bitter beyond anything we know
of in this country.
For these reasons I have called upon the officers now in command, in
the absence of General Gains, of the 3rd Military Department of the United
States, for five hundred men of the regular army to be stationed in
Hancock county, with whose aid I hope to be able to preserve order and
proceed against all criminals whomsoever they may be. The following is a
copy of the answer to the application:---
`Headquarters, 3rd Mil. Dept., St. Louis, Mo., July 11, 1844.
`Sir,---I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's
communication of this date, relating to the difficulties which have
occurred between the Mormons and the people of Hancock county, Illinois,
and the further difficulties apprehended by you, and requesting of me a
force of some five hundred men from the regular army of the United States
to be stationed for a time in Hancock county, and to act in conjunction
with such forces as may be ordered on the part of the state of Illinois.
`I have not the power of complying with your request, but will
forward by tomorrow's mail a copy of your communication to be laid before
the authorities in Washington city, and will advise your Excellency of the
result as soon as ascertained. With great respect, Your most obedient
servant, [Signed] S. W. KEARNEY, Col. 1st Drags.
His Excellency Thomas Ford, Governor of Illinois, St. Louis, Mo.' By
the above letter you will perceive that I cannot yet be enabled to say
with certainty whether the application will be successful: we will know in
two weeks. I think, at most.
The anti-Mormon party intend to renew the war this fall, and if it
were known with certainty that the troops of the regular army would be
obtained to prevent their operations, they would, most likely, hasten
their plans and do all the mischief in their power before the force
arrives. They are not afraid of the state militia, and would give
themselves but little concern in fear of such opposition.
I therefore caution you not to let it be known beyond your most
trusted men that a regular force is expected. I have myself not informed
anyone who would make the matter public, and yet, most unaccountably, the
fact has got into the newspapers.
Another caution I would give you, your people cannot pay too much
attention to it. It is very natural and probable to suppose that with the
prospect of such a force, and the increased security it may give, some of
your people may be prompted to such audacity and imprudence as will tend
to prolong angry feelings. They may thus be induced to do and say foolish
and wicked things, uselessly vexatious and mortifying to the opposing
party.
There are no doubt wicked people in Nauvoo, ready for the commission
of crime, as well as in every other city of the same number of
inhabitants. The well-disposed amongst you must restrain those persons,
and, if need be, bring them to punishment. The public at large will not
distinguish among you, but will involve you all in a common obloquy.
I have dwelt more, perhaps, than may be agreeable to you on this
point; but I have done so in my anxiety that the Mormons may demonstrate
to the world that they are no more deserving than their enemies.
Three or four of your people are reported to me as having already
been threatening life, and publicly following men about the city with
clubs, and that no effort was made to restrain them. An effectual stop
must be put to all such vaporings, if you expect it to stop on the other
side. You are interested in bringing all such men to immediate justice, if
you can. If pacification is what you ask, you must restrain your own
hostility.
It may be thought that there has already been too much delay in
proceeding against the murderers, that a further delay will give an
opportunity for many of the guilty to escape, and that the apparent
impunity for the present will greatly encourage further outrages against
you,
This last consideration is one of considerable force, and on that
account I could wish to proceed without delay, if it could be done without
exciting further troubles, or if I had a force at my command on which I
could rely to suppress them.
I do not fear that any of the leaders will escape or flee from
justice: they are determined to remain and ~rave it out to the end.
In my humble opinion there is no utility in proceeding against any
but the leaders.
As to the misguided multitude who were the mere followers of others
and the instruments of mischief, it has never been the practice of
civilized states to proceed against them with rigor.
The punishment of some of the principal offenders has always been
looked upon as sufficient to vindicate the majesty of the law and to deter
others from the commission of like offenses, and this is the whole object
of human punishment.
I do not apprehend that anything requiring my further stay here will
happen immediately, and will return home tomorrow. I am, most
respectfully, Your obedient servant, [Signed] THOMAS FORD. William W.
Phelps, Esq., Nauvoo, Illinois.'"
CHAPTER XVII
GATHERING OF THE TWELVE AND OTHER LEADING ELDERS AT NAUVOO----DEATH
OF ELDER SAMUEL H. SMITH, BROTHER OF THE PROPHET, EARLY MISSIONARY
OF THE CHURCH AND ONE OF THE EIGHT WITNESSES OF THE BOOK OF MORMON
"Wednesday, July 24, 1844.----The brethren of the Twelve were delayed
in Boston several days, waiting upon Elder Lyman Wight to accompany them
to Nauvoo.
Elders Young, Kimball and Wight left Boston by railway in the morning
for Nauvoo. On their arrival at Albany, in the evening, they were joined
by Elders Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff and Sister Ruth
Sayers, who had arrived from New York. They continued their journey by
railway during the night.
Thursday, 25.----Elder Orson Spencer returned from Quincy.
Dr. Richards received the following from President Brigham Young:----
LETTER OF ELDER BRIGHAM YOUNG TO WILLARD RICHARDS `Salem, July 8,
1844. Beloved Brother Willard Richards: I sit down a few minutes to write
you, as Brother Erastus Snow is going to start for Nauvoo tomorrow. He has
been laboring in Vermont.
We cannot get one word from our families by letter of late, Sister
Ruth Sayers has received a letter from her husband, that, I understand,
gives some information which seems to be satisfactory.
According to what we hear in this country about the `Mormons' ;n the
west, I should suppose that there is an election about to take place, or
the Prophet had offered himself for some office in the United States; for
of all the howlings of devils and devil's whelps, this season cannot be
beat.
Sometimes the "Mormons' are all killed; sometimes they are half
killed; sometimes the blood is shoe-deep in Nauvoo; sometimes `Old Joe',
as they call him, is taken by the mob and carried to Missouri; sometimes
he is gone to Washington; sometimes he has run away; then again he is
given up to the authorities, etc., etc. One might suppose him to be a
sectarian God, without body, parts or passions, his center everywhere and
his circumference nowhere.
Since I left Nauvoo I have heard a great many expressions about the
Prophet, but the prevailing opinion is, that he is the smartest man in the
Union, and the people are afraid of his smartness. Some will vote for him
for the novelty of the thing, and some to see what a Prophet will do at
the head of government, We had a fine passage on the rivers; preached and
lectured all the way round.
I lectured at Pittsburgh and in Kirtland, We held political meetings
at Shalorsville and Hiram. I preached in the first house west of old
Father Johnson's, where Brothers Joseph and Sidney were mobbed. I looked
at the house a great many times.
I left Brothers Snow and Brooks in Ohio, doing well. The Twelve have
been faithful in all things. Brother William Smith is a great man in his
calling in this country. Brother Lyman Wight has never been with us
before; he is a great, good, noble-hearted man. I love my brethren more
and more.
I want to see you and the rest of the brethren in Nauvoo. Give my
best love to Brothers Joseph and Hyrum. I cannot be there to see them, but
I pray for them continually, and for you and all the brethren in our
beloved city, and I pray my heavenly Father to preserve my brethren, my
family and the whole city. I pray that we may finish the Temple and get
our endowments.
We had a large congregation in Boston at our convention, though in
the evening there were some who came in that made some disturbance. This
proves that the voice of the people rules; that is, the voice of the
rabble. One of the watch got some hurt, but all this did us good in
Boston. Brother Heywood, from Quincy, is here with us and is doing much
good. He is a faithful witness for Brother Joseph and the principles of
righteousness.
We have baptized a good many since we left. The gospel is going
ahead. All the stories that are going the rounds make no difference, the
people will believe the gospel.
You might ask what we think about Brother Joseph's getting the
election this year? You know all about it. We shall do all we can and
leave the event with God---the God of heaven will do just as he pleases
about it.
Brother Daniel Spencer and many others are here; they are awake to
the subject, We are now in the concert hall in Salem. Brother Erastus Snow
is now speaking,
We shall attend the conferences in this country, and then leave for
the western states to attend the conferences, and get home as quickly as
possible. If you are to have a little trouble there, we wish to have a
hand in it with you.
I wish you would see my family and speak comfortably to them. Brother
Tur, I hope all will go on well with him. If you get a chance to dispose
of our property at a good rate, do so. If my wife can get anything to help
her I should be pleased. Give my love to Sister Jennetta and all the
household. and to all the saints.
Brothers Kimball and Wight will start for Baltimore tomorrow. The
brethren in this country inquire after you and all the elders that they
have seen; they are warm-hearted. I suppose you have received a letter
from the Boston church, with Parley P. Pratt's name to it, May the Lord
bless you all, BRIGHAM YOUNG.'
Elder Samuel H. Smith remains very sick.
Elder Erastus Snow, and many other elders, returned home today; all
seemed weighed down with gloom.
Elders Young, Kimball, Hyde, Pratt, Woodruff and Wight arrived in
Buffalo, and remained all night.
Friday, 26.----President Young and company took steamboat at Buffalo
for Detroit.
Elder Orson Hyde took leave of his brethren at Fairport, to visit his
family at Kirtland.
Saturday, 27.----We copy from the Times and Seasons the following
from the pen of Miss E. R. Snow:----
TO ELDER JOHN TAYLOR "Thou Chieftain of Zion! henceforward thy name
Will be classed with the martyrs and share in their fame; Through ages
eternal, of thee will be said, `With the greatest of Prophets he suffered
and bled'. When the shafts of injustice were pointed at him--- When the
cup of his suff'ring was filled to the brim--- When his innocent blood was
inhumanly shed, You shared his afflictions and with him you bled. When
around you, like hailstones, the rifle balls flew--- When the passage of
death opened wide to your view--- When the Prophet's freed spirit, through
martyrdom fled, In your gore you lay welt'ring---with martyrs you bled.
All the scars from your wounds, like the trophies of yore, Shall be
ensigns of honor till you are no more; And by all generations, of thee
shall be said, `With the best of the Prophets in prison he bled'.'
The brethren of the Twelve arrived at Detroit in the evening, and
remained over night at the railroad hotel.
Sunday, 28.----Elders Parley P. Pratt, W. W. Phelps and others
addressed the saints in Nauvoo.
On hearing of the death of the Prophet and Patriarch, Elders Charles
C. Rich, David Fullmer, Graham Coltrin, Samuel Bent, Ira Miles and George
A. Smith were together in Michigan. Elder George A. Smith counselled the
elders to return home. They accordingly started for Nauvoo. The roads were
muddy, the waters high, and many of the bridges were gone. As they
approached Nauvoo they found the people very hostile, however they
preached at several places by the way.
Elder George A. Smith, and the brethren with him, arrived at Nauvoo
near midnight.
The following is from Elder Wilford Woodruff's Journal;----
EXCERPT "The brethren of the Twelve took the propeller Hercules for
Chicago at 10 a. m. Fare in the cabin $7. We had comfortable staterooms.
We spent the day in writing and in social conversation with each other
concerning the death of Joseph and Hyrum and the welfare of the church and
our families. A variety of subjects were called up, each one expressing
his feelings freely. President Brigham Young said he wished me to keep an
account of things as they were passing, as he should look to me for his
journal at a future day. Elder Wight said that Joseph told him, while in
Liberty jail, Missouri, in 1839, he would not live to see forty years, but
he was not to reveal it till he was dead.'
Monday, 29.----Elder George A, Smith visited the Prophet's family.
Elders Willard Richards and George A. Smith visited Elder Samuel H.
Smith and laid hands upon him. He expressed a strong desire to live: he
was very low, being in the last stages of bilious fever.
Elders Richards and Smith met at Elder Richards', and ordained two
elders who were about leaving the the city. Brother Richards signed their
licenses:---- `TWELVE APOSTLES, President, Willard Richards, Clerk.'
George Miller called on them and requested the privilege of passing
some resolutions against the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum. The brethren
told him to be quiet and wait and see what the governor and the state
authorities would do, that Dr. Richards had pledged himself that the
brethren would be quiet, and the Lord had said, `Vengeance is mine, I will
repay'. Miller left the council, saying, `Fat men for patience'.
In the evening Elders Richards and Smith visited Elder Taylor.
Tuesday, 30.----Elder Samuel H. Smith, brother of the martyred
Prophet and Patriarch, died.
DEATH OF SAMUEL H. SMITH Elders W, Richards and George A. Smith met
in Council with Elder Taylor at his house. Bishop George Miller and
Alexander Badlam wanted them to call together the Council of Fifty and
organize the church. They were told that the Council of Fifty was not a
church organization, but was composed of members irrespective of their
religious faith, and organized for the purpose of consulting on the best
manner of obtaining redress of grievances from our enemies, and to devise
means to find and locate in some place where we could live in peace; and
that the organization of the church belonged to the priesthood alone.
The brethren of the Twelve arrived at Mackinaw. The steamer stopped a
short time, took in some fish, and took some boats with Indians in tow.
There was a feeling of prejudice manifested by the passengers of the boat
against the brethren, because they did not mingle with them in their
nonsense and folly, and this spirit is more or less manifest throughout
the world,
Wednesday, 31.----Elder Amasa Lyman arrived in Nauvoo.
The following from the governor appeared in the Neighbor:----
GOVERNOR FORD TO THE PEOPLE OF WARSAW IN HANCOCK COUNTY `I am
continually informed of your preparations and threats to renew the war and
exterminate the `Mormons', One would suppose that you ought to rest
satisfied with what you have already done.
The `Mormon' leaders, if they ever resisted the law, have submitted
to its authority. They have surrendered the public arms, and appeared to
be ready to do anything required to make atonement for whatever wrong may
have been done.
Since the assassination of their two principal leaders, under
circumstances well calculated to inflame their passions and drive them to
excesses for the purposes of revenge, they have been entirely peaceful and
submissive, and have patiently awaited the slow operation of the laws to
redress the wrongs of which they complained. There has been no
retaliation, no revenge, and, for anything I can ascertain, there will be
none.
Those of your people who are charged with being the most hostile to
them have lived, if they knew it, in perfect security from illegal
violence.
I am anxious for a pacification of your difficulties. You cannot
drive out or exterminate the `Mormons'. Such an effort would be madness,
and would not be permitted by the people of the state. You cannot be
sustained in it either by force or law. You are binding yourselves to your
weakness, and keeping up an agitation which must fail of the purpose
intended and recoil with terrible energy upon your own heads.
I exhort you to reconsider your infatuated resolutions. Try your
`Mormon' neighbors again, and if you cannot dwell together in amity, you
may at least refrain from injuring each other.
From the moderation of the `Mormons', under what they conceive to be
the deepest injury, you might well hope that if they ever entertained
designs inconsistent with your liberty and happiness, that those designs
have been abandoned. They are also interested in preserving the peace.
It is not natural to suppose that they, any more than yourselves,
wish to live in continual alarm. They hope for quietness, and will be
peaceful and submissive in order to enjoy it. But you are continually
driving them to desperation by an insane course of threatening and
hostility, and depriving yourselves of peace by the same means used to
disquiet them.
If I have said anything severe in this address, I pray you attribute
it to my deep conviction that your course is improper and unwarrantable.
Such is the opinion of the people at large in the state and all over the
country.
From being right in the first instance you have put yourselves in the
Wrong, and there are none who sustain you. As men of sense you are bound
to see, if you will open your eyes, that you cannot effect your purposes,
Nevertheless, you are still training and drilling, and keeping together,
and threatening a renewal of the war.
I have said to you often that you cannot succeed; by this time you
ought to see it yourselves. What can your small force do against two
thousand armed men, entrenched in a city, and defending themselves, their
wives and their children?
Besides, if you are the aggressors, I am determined that all the
power of the state shall be used to prevent your success. I can never
agree that a set of infatuated and infuriated men shall barbarously attack
a peaceful people who have submitted to all the demands of the law, and
when they had full power to do so, refrained from inflicting vengeance
upon their enemies. You may count on my most determined opposition---upon
the opposition of the law, and upon that of every peaceful, law-abiding
citizen of the country,
This is not spoken in anger. God knows I would do no injury unless
compelled to do so to sustain the laws, But mob violence must be put down.
It is threatening the whole country with anarchy and ruin. It is menacing
our fair form of government, and destroying the confidence of the patriot
in the institutions of his country.
I have been informed that the `Mormons' about Lima and Macedonia have
been warned to leave the settlements. They have a right to remain and
enjoy their property. As long as they are good citizens they shall not be
molested, and the sooner those misguided persons withdraw their warning
and retrace their steps, the better it will be for them. [Signed] THOMAS
FORD. July 25, 1844."
Thursday, August 1.----The remains of the deceased Elder Samuel H.
Smith were interred this morning at 10 a. m.
We extract the following from his obituary:----
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE OF SAMUEL H. SMITH, BROTHER OF THE
PROPHET----IMPORTANT TESTIMONY TO ME BOOK OF MORMON "Samuel Harrison
Smith, the fourth son of Joseph and Lucy, was born in the town of
Tunbridge, Orange county, Vermont, on the 13th day of March, 1808.
In his earLy life he assisted his father in farming. He possessed a
religious turn of mind, and at an early age joined the Presbyterian
Church, to which sect he belonged until he visited his brother Joseph in
May, 1829, when Joseph informed him that the Lord was about to commence
his latter-day work.
He also showed him that part of the Book of Mormon which he had
translated, and labored to persuade him concerning the gospel of Jesus
Christ which was about to be revealed in its fullness.
Samuel was not, however, very easily persuaded of these things: but
after much inquiry and explanation he retired and prayed that he might
obtain from the Lord wisdom to enable him to judge for himself; the result
was that he obtained revelation for himself sufficient to convince him of
the truth of the testimony of his brother Joseph.
On the 15th day of May, 1829, having been commanded of the Lord,
Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were baptized, and as they were returning
from the water to the house, they overheard Samuel engaged in secret
prayer. Joseph said that he considered that a sufficient testimony of his
being a fit subject for baptism; and as they had now received authority to
baptize, they spoke to Samuel upon the subject, and he went straightway to
the water with them, and was baptized by Oliver Cowdery, he being the
third person baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ in the last
dispensation.
He was one of the eight witnesses of the Book of Mormon.
He was present at the organization of the church, April 6, 1830, and
was one of the six who at that time constituted the members of the church.
He was ordained to the priesthood on the 6th of April, 1830.
On the 30th of June following the organization of the church, he took
some Books of Mormon and started out on his mission, to which he had been
set apart by his brother Joseph, and on traveling twenty-five miles, which
was his first day's journey, he stopped at a number of places in order to
sell his books, but was turned out of doors as soon as he declared his
principles.
When evening came on he was faint and almost discouraged; but coming
to an inn, which was surrounded with every appearance of plenty, he called
to see if the landlord would buy one of his books. On going in, Samuel
inquired of him if he did not wish to purchase a history of the origin of
the Indians.
`I do not know', replied the host, `how did you get hold of it?'
`It was translated', rejoined Samuel, `by my brother, from some gold
plates that he found buried in the earth.'
"You damned liar', cried the landlord, `get out of my house---you
shan't stay one minute with your books.'
Samuel was sick at heart, for this was the fifth time he had been I
turned out of doors that day. He left the house and traveled a short
distance, and washed his feet in a small brook as a testimony against the
man.
He then proceeded five miles further on his journey, and seeing an
apple tree a short distance from the road, he concluded to pass the night
under it; and here he lay all night upon the cold, damp ground.
In the morning he arose from his comfortless bed, and observing a
small cottage at no great distance, he drew near, hoping to get a little
refreshment. The only inmate was a widow, who seemed very poor, He asked
her for food, relating the story of his former treatment, She prepared him
some victuals, and, after eating, he explained to her the history of the
Book of Mormon. She listened attentively, and believed all that he told
her; but, in consequence of her poverty, she was unable to purchase one of
the books. He presented her with one, and proceeded to Bloomington, which
was eight miles further.
Here he stopped at the house of one John P. Greene, who was a
Methodist preacher and was at that time about starting on a preaching
mission. He, like the others, did not wish to make a purchase of what he
considered at that time to be a nonsensical fable; however, he said that
he would take a subscription paper, and if he found any one on his route
who was disposed to purchase, he would take his name, and in two weeks
Samuel might call again, and he would let him know what the prospect was
of selling. After making this arrangement, Samuel left one of his books
with him and returned home.
At the time appointed, Samuel started again for the Rev. John F.
Greene's, in order to learn the success which this gentleman had met with
in finding sale for the Book of Mormon. This time his father and mother
accompanied him, and it was their intention to have passed near the tavern
where Samuel was so abusively treated a fortnight previous, but just
before they came to the house a sign of smallpox intercepted them.
They turned aside, and meeting a citizen of the place they inquired
of him to what extent this disease prevailed. He answered that the tavern
keeper and two of his family had died with it not long since, but he did
not know that anyone else had caught the distemper, and that it was
brought into the neighborhood by a traveler who stopped at the tavern over
night.
Samuel performed several short missions with the books, and gave the
following account of his third mission to Livonia:---
"When I arrived at Mr. Greene's, Mrs. Greene informed me that her
husband was absent from home, that there was no prospect of selling my
books, and even the one which I had left with them she expected
I would have to take away, as Mr. Greene had no disposition to
purchase it, although she had read it herself and was much pleased with
it.
`I then talked with her a short time, and, binding my knapsack upon
my shoulders, rose to depart; but, as I bade her farewell, it was
impressed upon my mind to leave the book with her. I made her a present of
it, and told her that the Spirit forbade my taking it away. She burst into
tears, and requested me to pray with her. I did so, and afterwards
explained to her the most profitable manner of reading the book which I
had left with her, which was, to ask God, when she read it, for a
testimony of the truth of what she had read, and she would receive the
Spirit of God which would enable her to discern the things of God. I then
left her and returned home.'
In December, 1830, Samuel was sent to preach in Kirtland, Ohio, and
the surrounding country. About that time Joseph, the Prophet, went to
Kirtland to preside accompanied by Hyrum and many of the saints, and soon
after Joseph Smith, Sen's. family, and the saints who were located in
Waterloo, in Fayette township, also moved to Kirtland.
In June, 1831, he was called by re;elation to go to Missouri on a
mission, in company with Reynolds Cahoon. They immediately started, and
while on their way called upon William E. McLellin, and preached the
gospel to him and a large assembly in a room which he procured. William,
being troubled about the things he heard, closed up his business and
proceeded after the brethren to Missouri, where he was baptized before
they arrived.
On their route to Missouri they [Elders Smith and Cahoon] preached
the gospel, traveling without purse or scrip, and enduring much for the
want of food and rest.
When they started for Missouri, about fifty brethren set out for the
same place, and when they all arrived, they met on the spot for the
Temple, in Jackson county, and dedicated the ground unto God.
Brothers Smith and Cahoon spent several days in Jackson county,
attended several conferences and were with Joseph when he received several
revelations. While in Missouri they were required to remain together on
their return mission until they reached home, which was in September
following.
Soon after their arrival in Kirtland they took a mission into the
southern townships and counties of Ohio. Brother Cahoon returned after
laboring about six weeks, but Samuel continued preaching through the
winter, strengthening the churches and comforting the saints.
In a revelation given January, 1832, Orson Hyde and Samuel H. Smith
were called to go on a mission to the eastern country; accordingly they
started in March, and traveled and preached the gospel through the states
of Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts
and Maine. They baptized several in Spafford, N.Y., in Boston and Linn,
Mass. in Providence, R. I., and in Saco, Maine, preaching much from house
to house, as well as in public congregations, and returning to Kirtland in
November or December.
During the year 1833, Samuel preached among the churches as he had
opportunity, and spent a good portion of his time laboring with his hands.
On the 17th of February, 1834, he was ordained and set apart as one
of the high council in Kirtland, in which office he officiated until he
went to Missouri in 1838.
August 13th, 1834, he married Mary Bailey, who was born in Bedford,
Hillsborough county, New Hampshire, Dec. 20th, 1808.
September 16th, 1835, he was appointed, in company with David
Whitmer, as a committee and general agent to act in the name of, and for
the Literary firm. In the winter of 1835-6 he chopped cordwood for Lorenzo
D. Young.
In 1838 he traveled, in company with his brother Joseph, from
Kirtland to Missouri. He passed through the mobbing of that year in Far
West and Adam-ondi-Ahman in Missouri, and his family suffered nigh unto
death from exposure, as they were driven about by the mob.
He was in the Crooked River battle; and immediately after, by the
counsel of President Brigham Young, with Brothers C. C. Rich, B. L. Clapp,
L. D. Young and about twenty others, they fled for Illinois by the
wilderness, through the north part of Missouri and the southern part of
Iowa.
Messengers overtook them and informed them that General Clark had
sent a company of fifty well armed men to follow them, with strict orders
not to return until they had brought back the company either dead or
alive.
When this word came a halt was called, and Samuel asked what they
should do in case the enemy overtook them. After a few moments'
consultation, the whole company covenanted with uplifted hands to Heaven,
that if they were overtaken they would fight till they died, and not a man
would fall into the hands of the enemy alive.
They then traveled on ten miles and camped on the edge of some timber
on the north side of a four-mile prairie, and they afterwards learned that
their enemies camped on the south edge of the same prairie, and would have
overtaken them next day had not the Lord sent a heavy snowstorm during the
night; and when the brethren arose in the morning, Phineas H. Young
remarked that that snowstorm was their salvation, The air was so full of
snow that they could hardly find their horses to saddle them, but they
soon mounted their horses and continued their journey as fast as they
could. The storm was from the north and in their faces; it filled their
tracks in a few moments, so that Clark's men could not follow.
It was reported that this company of men, on their return, informed
the general that they could not overtake the `damned Mormons' for they
were stopped by a `damned snowstorm'.
After they had got some distance on their journey, the company
divided into three parts, the three brethren named fell in company with
Samuel; their provisions gave out, and, after spending several days
without food, except eating linden buds and slippery elm bark, they camped
upon a small stream, and the company, numbering eight, held a council and
appointed Samuel president, that they might receive the word of the Lord
in relation to the situation of Joseph the Prophet and those who were with
him, also in relation to their families, and what they were to do to
obtain food. They all knelt down in a circle, and each one prayed, then
the Spirit of the Lord came upon Samuel, and, being filled with the Holy
Ghost, he arose and said:---
`Thus saith the Lord---My servant Joseph is not injured, nor any of
his brethren that are with him, but they will all be delivered out of the
hands of their enemies. Your families are all well, but anxious about you.
Let your hearts be comforted, for I, the Lord, will provide food for you
on the morrow.'
They went to bed with glad hearts, and arose in the morning and
prayed again, and went out two by two to hunt for food. Brother Clapp saw
several squirrels and shot at them, but could not hit them. They were only
to stay one hour. At the end of the time they all returned except C. C.
Rich and Samuel.
Feeling very faint, one of the brethren proposed killing a horse.
Brother Clapp said that when Brothers Rich and Samuel returned they would
have food, as he never knew the Lord to give a false revelation to his
servants; and, while conversing upon the matter, the brethren made their
appearance with two silk handkerchiefs tied up full of bread and dried
meat.
Samuel's mind was led in a certain direction, and following it they
came to an Indian camp. They made known to the Indians by signs that they
were hungry; upon this the squaw, with all possible speed, baked them some
cakes, and gave each of them two, sending two to each of the six brethren
in camp, giving them to understand that she would be glad to send more,
but she had but little flour, and her papooses (children) would be hungry.
When they arrived in camp, all felt to rejoice. They formed a circle
around the food and asked a blessing upon it. The bread was very good,
being shortened with raccoon's oil. After eating they started upon their
journey, and obtained food sufficient, so that none perished.
Samuel arrived in Quincy, and was there to assist his father and
mother over the river on their arrival, and hired a house for them, into
which he also assisted four other families of the saints; and, according
to the word of the Lord unto him, his brothers, Joseph and Hyrum, were
delivered, and they arrived in Quincy in April, 1839.
He moved, in company with Don Carlos, on to a farm which he rented
near Macombe, McDonough county, where he spent the season farming.
Elders Wilford Woodruff and John Taylor called upon them as they went
on their missions to England, and held a meeting with the saints in that
place (Oct. 11th, 1839). Don Carlos preached, and was followed by Samuel,
who enjoyed much of the Holy Spirit, and bore a strong testimony to the
truth of the work of God. He assisted the brethren upon their journey.
In September, 1840, Samuel received the following blessing from under
the hands of his father, Joseph Smith, Sen., upon his dying bed:----
`Samuel, you have been a faithful and obedient son. By your
faithfulness you have brought many into the church. The Lord has seen your
diligence, and you are blessed in that he has never chastised you, but has
called you home to rest; and there is a crown laid up for you which shall
grow brighter and brighter unto the perfect day.
`When the Lord called you he said, `Samuel, I have seen thy
sufferings, have heard thy cries and beheld thy faithfulness; thy skirts
are clear from the blood of this generation'. Because of these things, I
seal upon your head all the blessings which I have heretofore pronounced
upon you; and this, my dying blessing, I now seal upon you. Even so.
Amen.'
His wife bore to him four children---viz., Susannah B., Mary B.,
Samuel Harrison Bailey and Lucy B. His wife Mary died January 25th, 1841.
In April, 1841, he was sent on a mission to preach the gospel in
Scott and adjoining counties, Illinois. May 3rd, he married Levira Clark,
daughter of Gardner and Delecta, born in Livonia, Livingston county, New
York July 30th, 1815. He preached during the summer and fall, his wife
remaining with his father-in-law.
In the month of November he returned to Nauvoo, taking his family
with him, where he remained during the winter, and also the summer of
1842, during which time he worked mostly for Joseph and harvested in the
country.
In the fall of 1842 he removed to his brother William's tavern at
Plymouth. In the summer of 1843 he was often at Nauvoo. In the fall he
chopped wood, and prepared his farm by making fences and clearing off the
timber, preaching the gospel in the vicinity as he had opportunity.
In the spring of 1844 he cultivated his farm, and upon hearing of the
imprisonment of his brothers in Carthage jail, he repaired thither on
horseback to see them. While on the way he was pursued by the mobocrats;
but in consequence of the fleetness of his horse, he was enabled to reach
Carthage in safety, from whence he went to Nauvoo in company with the
bodies of his martyred brothers, Joseph and Hyrum.
His wife, Levira, bore to him three daughters---viz., Levira A. C.,
Louisa C. and Lucy J. C.
He was soon after taken sick of bilious fever, and died on the 30th
of July, aged 36 years.'
The following extract is from his obituary notice, published in the
Times and Seasons:----
`The exit of this worthy man, so soon after the horrible butchery of
his brothers, Joseph and Hyrum, in Carthage jail, is a matter of deep
solemnity to the family, as well as a remediless loss to all. If ever
there lived a good man upon the earth, Samuel H. Smith was that person.
His labors in the church from first to last, carrying glad tidings to the
eastern cities, and finally his steadfastness as one of the [eight
special] witnesses to the Book of Mormon, and many saintly traits of
virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and
charity, shall be given of him hereafter as a man of God.'
CHAPTER XVIII
THE GATHERING OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES FROM THE EAST TO
NAUVOO: PRELIMINARY MEETINGS LOOKING TO THE SETTLEMENT OF THE QUESTION
OF THE PRESIDENCY OF THE CHURCH
"Thursday, August 1, 1844.----The brethren of the Twelve arrived in
Chicago in the evening, and tarried over night at the Lake Street house.
Friday, 2.----A meeting of the citizens of Hancock county was held at
the grove, west of the Temple. Great excitement prevailed through the
county. The mob party were determined to elect officers who would screen
the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith and exterminate the Mormons.
The meeting resolved to support candidates who were in favor of
preserving order and enforcing the laws. The following candidates were
agreed upon:---- Minerxxx R. Deming, sheriff; Daniel H. Wells, coroner;
George Coulson, commissioner; J. B. Backenstos and A. W. Babbitt,
representatives.
President Young and company took at seven a. m., for Galena; passed
over delightful country, but very bad to walk over mud holes and bad
places, and had to carry poles or rails on their backs to pry out the
stage coach.
Saturday, 3.----Elder Sidney Rigdon arrived at Nauvoo from
Pittsburgh.
Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards and George A. Smith invited
President Rigdon to meet in council at eight o'clock tomorrow morning,
which he agreed to.
The Twelve continued their journey through the day and night by
stage. While upon their journey they overtook a company of Norwegians who
were traveling with ox teams, and heavily loaded wagons one of which was
stuck fast in the mud, blocking up the road, while several of them were
whipping the oxen and bawling to them in the Norwegian language, which
seemed to frighten the oxen, but they were unable to move the wagons on.
After sitting and looking at them a moment, President Young got out
of the coach and stepped up, and took the whip out of the hands of one of
the Norwegians, telling them all to stand out of the way.
He then talked to the oxen in a tongue which was not understood by
Norwegians or English, and touching them lightly with the whip, they
instantly pulled the wagon out of the mud and continued the journey, much
to the astonishment of the Norwegians and the surprise and amusement of
the passengers on the stage,
Sunday, 4.-----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards and George A.
Smith met in council, and waited an hour for Elder Rigdon, who excused
himself afterwards by saying he was engaged with a lawyer.
10 a. m. Meeting at the stand. Elder Rigdon preached from the words,
`For my thoughts are not as your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,
saith the Lord.'
He related a vision which he said the Lord had shown him concerning
the situation of the church, and said there must be a guardian appointed
to build the church up to Joseph, as he had begun it.
He said he was the identical man that the ancient prophets had sung
about, wrote and rejoiced over, and that he was sent to do the identical
work that had been the theme of all the prophets in every preceding
generation. He said that the Lord's ways were not as our ways, for the
Lord said he would `hiss for the fly from the uttermost part of the rivers
of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria,' and thereby
destroy his enemies; that the time was near at hand when he would see one
hundred tons of metal per second thrown at the enemies of God, and that
the blood would be to the horses' bridles; and that he expected to walk
into the palace of Queen Victoria and lead her out by the nose, when none
would have power to say, `why do ye so?' and if it were not for two or
three' things which he knew, this people would be utterly destroyed, and
not a soul left to tell the tale.
Elder Parley P. Pratt, in referring to the remarks of Brother Rigdon,
on a subsequent occasion, said, `I am the identical man the prophets never
sang nor wrote a word about.'
Public service meeting continued; afternoon: Elders Murdock and Rich
preached. Elder William Marks, president of the stake, gave public notice
(at the request of Elder Rigdon) , that there would be special meeting of
the church at the stand, on Thursday, the 8th inst., for the purpose of
choosing a guardian, (President and Trustee) .
Elder Thomas Grover proposed waiting to examine the revelation.
Elder Marks said President Rigdon wanted the meeting on Tuesday, but
he put it off till Thursday; that Elder Rigdon was some distance from his
family, and wanted to know if this people had anything for him to do; if
not, he wanted to go on his way, for there was a people numbering
thousands and tens of thousands who would receive him; that he wanted to
visit other branches around, but he had come here first.
Elder Rich called upon William Clayton, and said he was dissatisfied
with the hurried movement of Elder Rigdon. He considered, inasmuch as the
Twelve had been sent for and were soon expected home, the notice for
meeting was premature, and it seemed to him a plot laid to take advantage
of the situation of the saints.
President Young and his associates arrived at Galena at eight o'clock
this morning (August 4th), nearly exhausted with fatigue, having traveled
48 hours without stopping, except to take meals and change horses,
distance about 160 miles.
From the Millennial Star:----
MARK OF RESPECT SHOWN FOR THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS IN LIVERPOOL FOR THE
MARTYRS On Sunday, August 4th, very numerous congregations attended at the
Music Hall, the majority of the saints in deep mourning, whilst the
platform or raised gallery, where the priesthood sat, was handsomely
decorated with black drapery. We would suggest to the saints generally, as
far as their means will allow them, to pay respect to the memory of our
lamented brethren.
Monday, 5.-----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards, John Taylor,
George A. Smith, Amasa Lyman and Bishop Whitney, waited upon Elder Rigdon
in the morning. He said he would meet them in council at Elder Taylor's
after dinner.
They accordingly met in council, and when Elder Rigdon came in, he
paced the room and said, `Gentlemen, you're used up; gentlemen, you are
all divided; the anti-Mormons have got you; the brethren are voting every
way, some for James, some for Deming, some for Coulson, and some for
Bedell; the anti-Mormons have got you, you cannot stay in the county,
everything is in confusion, you can do nothing, you lack a great leader,
you want a head, and unless you unite upon that head you are blown to the
four winds, the anti-Mormons will carry the election----a guardian must be
appointed.'
Elder George A. Smith said, `Brethren, Elder Rigdon is entirely
mistaken, there is no division; the brethren are united; the election will
be unanimous, and the friends of law and order will be elected by a
thousand majority. There is no occasion to be alarmed. President Rigdon is
inspiring fears there are no grounds for.'
The result was that it was one of the most unanimous elections held
in Nauvoo, as there were only five opposition votes polled in the city,
and in the county the majority for the law and order candidates was over
one thousand, notwithstanding the anti-Mormons smuggled a great many votes
from other counties.
Elder Rigdon said he did not expect the people to choose a guardian
on Thursday, but to have a prayer meeting and interchange of thought and
feeling, and warm up each other's hearts.
Jesse Price made the following affidavit:----
AFFIDAVIT OF JESSE PRICE BEFORE AARON JOHNSON---MURDEROUS INTENTIONS
OF WILLIAM LAW `State of Illinois, County of Hancock, ss. On the 5th day
of August, 1844, personally appeared before me, Aaron Johnson, justice of
the peace in and for said county, Jesse Price; and after being duly sworn
according to law, deposeth and saith, that on or about the 18th of April,
1844, in the city of Nauvoo, county aforesaid, William Law said, `I put
pistols in my pockets one night, and went to Joseph Smith's house,
determined to blow his infernal brains out, but I could not get the
opportunity to shoot him then, but I am determined I will shoot him the
first opportunity, and you will see blood and thunder and devastation in
this place, but I shall not be here;' and deponent saith not further.'
The following letter was sent to Dr. Richards:---- LETTER OF JOSEPH
M. COLE--ELECTION RETURNS THREATENED `La Harpe, August 5, 1844. Brother
Richards,----I hasten to inform you that intelligence has arrived in this
place today, by several persons, that the mobocrats at Carthage have
concocted a plan to intercept the returns of the election at Nauvoo, and
destroy them before they arrive at Carthage. The information is of such a
nature that I deemed it necessary that you should be informed of the same,
that you may act accordingly. Respectfully, JOSEPH M. COLE.'
President Young and the Apostles with him went on board the steamer
St. Croix at Galena, for Nauvoo. They started in the afternoon.
Elder Kimball recorded the following dream:----
`I dreamed of speaking before a large congregation on the policy of
the nation and the policy of our religion. I said that Joseph the Prophet
had laid the foundation, and we would have to carry out his measures.
Joseph was there and heard all I said and sanctioned it. All seemed
perfectly natural.'
Tuesday, 6.----Elders Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards, John Taylor,
George A. Smith and Bishop Whitney met in council at Elder Taylor's,
From the death of Joseph until the arrival of President Brigham Young
and the Twelve, Elder Willard Richards was the principal counselor of the
saints in Nauvoo and had scarcely a moment to rest. He answered the calls
and inquiries of hundreds of the brethren, and was engaged every day until
a late hour, or until exhaustion compelled him to lie down.
The following is extracted from Elder Woodruff's Journal:----
EXCERPT `We (the brethren of the Twelve returning to Nauvoo) stopped
at various places while going down the Mississippi, among others, the town
of Burlington, after which we prepared our minds to once more behold the
city of Nauvoo and embrace our families and friends.
We were landed at the upper stone house at eight in the evening, and
were welcomed with joy by all the citizens we met. We hired a coach, and I
accompanied my brethren to their families, after which I was conveyed to
my own, and truly felt to rejoice to once more meet with my wife, children
and friends. Thus it is with me, I have spent but one summer either at
home or with the body of the church for the last ten years, as my lot has
been cast abroad in the vineyard most of the time.
When we landed in the city a deep gloom seemed to rest over the city
of Nauvoo, which we never experienced before.'
Wednesday, 7.----Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley P.
Pratt, Orson Pratt, Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith
and Lyman Wight met in council with Elder Taylor in at his house. They
found him recovering from his wounds received at the massacre of the
Prophets.
The Twelve felt to rejoice at having the privilege of again meeting
in council together, after having passed through such trying scenes, and
to be welcomed by the saints who considered it very providential for the
Twelve to arrive at this particular juncture, when their minds were
agitated, their hearts sorrowful, and darkness seemed to cloud their path,
feeling like sheep without a shepherd, their beloved Prophet having been
taken away.
4 p. m.----Meeting of the Twelve Apostles, high council and high
priests at the Seventies' Hall.
President William Marks prayed.
President Brigham Young called upon President Rigdon to make a
statement to the church concerning his message to the saints, and the
vision and revelation he had received.
President Rigdon said:---- `The object of my mission is to visit the
saints and offer myself to them as a guardian. I had a vision at
Pittsburgh, June 27th. This was presented to my mind not as an open
vision, but rather a continuation of the vision mentioned in the Book of
Doctrine and Covenants.
It was shown to me that this church must be built up to Joseph, and
that all the blessings we receive must come through him. I have been
ordained a spokesman to Joseph, and I must come to Nauvoo and see that the
church is governed in a proper manner. Joseph sustains the same
relationship to this church as he has always done. No man can be the
successor of Joseph.
The kingdom is to be built up to Jesus Christ through Joseph; there
must be revelation still. The martyred Prophet is still the head of this
church; every quorum should stand as you stood in your washings and
consecrations, I have been consecrated a spokesman to Joseph, and I was
commanded to speak for him. The church is not disorganized though our head
is gone.
We may have a diversity of feelings on this matter. I have been
called to be a spokesman unto Joseph, and I want to build up the church
unto him; and if the people want me to sustain this place, I
want it upon the principle that every individual shall acknowledge it
for himself.
I propose to be a guardian to the people; in this I have discharged
my duty and done what God has commanded me, and the people can please
themselves whether they accept me or not.'
President Brigham Young said;---- `I do not care who leads the
church, even though it were Ann Lee; but one thing I must know, and that
is what God says about it. I have the keys and the means of obtaining the
mind of God on the subject.
I know there are those in our midst who will seek the lives of the
Twelve as they did the lives of Joseph and Hyrum. We shall ordain others
and give the fullness of the priesthood, so that if we are killed the
fullness of the priesthood may remain.
Joseph conferred upon our heads all the keys and powers belonging to
the Apostleship which he himself held before he was taken away, and no man
or set of men can get between Joseph and the Twelve in this world or in
the world to come.
How often has Joseph said to the Twelve, `I have laid the foundation
and you must build thereon, for upon your shoulders the kingdom rests.'
The Twelve, as a quorum, will not be permitted to tarry here long;
they will go abroad and bear off the kingdom to the nations of the earth,
and baptize the people faster than mobs can kill them off. would like,
were it my privilege, to take my valise and travel and preach till we had
a people gathered who would be true.
My private feelings would be to let the affairs of men and women
alone, only go and preach and baptize them into the kingdom of God: yet,
whatever duty God places upon me, in his strength I intend to fulfill it.
I want to see this people, with the various quorums of the
priesthood, assembled together in special conference on Thursday next at
10 a. m.'
Which was carried unanimously by vote.
CHAPTER XIX
THE SETTLEMENT OF CHURCH LEADERSHIP----THE TWELVE APOSTLES ACCEPTED
AS THE PRESIDENCY OF THE CHURCH, BRIGHAM YOUNG AT THEIR HEAD
"Thursday, August 8th, 1844.----At a special meeting of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held in Nauvoo, at 10 a, m. on Thursday,
August 8, 1844, by the request of President William Marks, (who was then
presiding over that stake of Zion) to choose a guardian, or President and
Trustee, Sidney Rigdon took his position in a wagon, about two rods in
front of the stand, and harangued the saints for about one and a half
hours, upon choosing a guardian for the church. The meeting was then
dismissed, when President Brigham Young gave out an appointment for the
brethren to assemble at 2 p. m.
At the appointed time the brethren came together. Present, of the
Twelve, Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt,
Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith. The several quorums
were organized on and around the stand according to order.
THE REMARKS OF PRESIDENT YOUNG IN BEHALF OF THE CLAIM OF THE TWELVE
TO LEAD THE CHURCH IN THE ABSENCE OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY The meeting
being opened, President Brigham Young arose and said:-----
`Attention all! This congregation makes me think of the days of King
Benjamin, the multitude being so great that all could not hear. I request
the brethren not to have any feelings for being convened this afternoon,
for it is necessary; we want you all to be still and give attention, that
all may hear. Let none complain because of the situation of the
congregation, we will do the best we can.
For the first time in my life, for the first time in your lives, for
the first time in the kingdom of God in the 19th century, without a
Prophet at our head, do I step forth to act in my calling in connection
with the Quorum of the Twelve, as Apostles of Jesus Christ unto this
generation---Apostles whom God has called by revelation through the
Prophet Joseph, who are ordained and anointed to bear off the keys of the
kingdom of God in all the world.
This people have hitherto walked by sight and not by faith. You have
had the Prophet in your midst. Do you all understand? You have walked by
sight and without much pleading to the Lord to know whether things were
right or not.
Heretofore you have had a Prophet as the mouth of the Lord to speak
to you, but he has sealed his testimony with his blood, and now, for the
first time, are you called to walk by faith, not by sight.
The first position I take in behalf of the Twelve and the people is,
to ask a few questions. I ask the Latter-day Saints: do you, as
individuals, at this time, want to choose a Prophet or a guardian?
Inasmuch as our Prophet and Patriarch are taken from our midst, do you
want some one to guard, to guide and lead you through this world into the
kingdom of God, or not? All that want some person to be a guardian or a
Prophet, a spokesman or something else, signify it by raising the right
hand. (No votes).
When I came to this stand I had peculiar feelings and impressions.
The faces of this people seem to say, we want a shepherd to guide and lead
us through this world. All that want to draw away a party from the church
after them, let them do it if they can, but they will not prosper.
If any man thinks he has influence among this people to lead away a
party, let him try it, and he will find out that there is power with the
Apostles which will carry them off victorious through all the world, and
build up and defend the church and kingdom of God
What do the people want? I feel as though I wanted the privilege to
weep and mourn for thirty days at least, then rise up, shake myself, and
tell the people what the Lord wants of them; although my heart is too full
of mourning to launch forth into business transactions and the
organization of the church, I feel compelled this day to step forth in the
discharge of those duties God has placed upon me.
I now wish to speak of the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints. If the church is organized, and you want to know how
it is organized, I will tell you. I know your feelings--- do you want me
to tell your feelings?
Here is President Rigdon, who was counselor to Joseph. I ask, where
are Joseph and Hyrum? They are gone beyond the veil; and if Elder Rigdon
wants to act as his counselor, he must go beyond the veil where he is.
There has been much said about President Rigdon being President of
the Church, and leading the people, being the head, etc. Brother Rigdon
has come 1,600 miles to tell you what he wants to do for you. If the
people want President Rigdon to lead them they may have him; but I say
unto you that the Quorum of the Twelve have the keys of the kingdom of God
in all the world.
The Twelve are appointed by the finger of God. Here is Brigham, have
his knees ever faltered? Have his lips ever quivered? Here is Heber and
the rest of the Twelve, an independent body who have the keys of the
priesthood---the keys of the kingdom of God to deliver to all the world:
this is true, so help me God. They stand next to Joseph, and are as the
First Presidency of the Church.
I do not know whether my enemies will take my life or not, and I do
not care, for I want to be with the man I love.
You cannot fill the office of a prophet, seer and revelator: God must
do this. You are like children without a father and sheep without a
shepherd, You must not appoint any man at our head; if you should, the
Twelve must ordain him. You cannot appoint a man at our head; but if you
do want any other man or men to . lead you, take them and we will go our
way to build up the kingdom in all the world.
I know who are Joseph's friends, and who are his enemies. I know
where the keys of the kingdom are, and where they will eternally be. You
cannot call a man to be a prophet; you cannot take Elder Rigdon and place
him above the Twelve; if so, he must be ordained by them.
I tell you there is an over anxiety to hurry matters here. You cannot
take any man and put him at the head; you would scatter the saints to the
four winds, you would sever the priesthood. So long as we remain as we
are, the heavenly Head is in constant cooperation with us; and if you go
out of that course, God will have nothing to do with you.
Again, perhaps some think that our beloved Brother Rigdon would not
be honored, would not be looked to as a friend; but if he does right and
remains faithful he will not act against our counsel nor we against his,
but act together, and we shall be as one.
I again repeat, no man can stand at our head, except God reveals it
from the heavens.
I have spared no pains to learn my lesson of the kingdom in this
world and in the eternal worlds; and if it were not so, I could go and
live in peace; but for the gospel and your sakes I shall stand in my
place. We are liable to be killed all the day long. You have never lived
by faith.
Brother Joseph, the Prophet, has laid the foundation for a great
work, and we will build upon it; you have never seen the quorums built one
upon another. There is an almighty foundation laid, and we can build a
kingdom such as there never was in the world: we can build a kingdom
faster than satan can kill the saints off.
What do you want? Do you want a patriarch for the whole church? To
this we are perfectly willing. If Brother Samuel H. Smith had been living,
it would have been his right and privilege; but he is dead, he is gone to
Joseph and Hyrum, he is out of the reach of bullets and spears, and he can
waft himself with his brothers, his friends and the saints.
Do you want a patriarch? Here is brother William [Smith] left; here
is Uncle John Smith, uncle to the Prophet Joseph left; it is their right.
The right of patriarchal blessings belongs to Joseph's family.
Do you want a Trustee-in-Trust? Has there been a bishop who has stood
in his lot yet? What is his business? To take charge of the temporal
affairs, so that the Twelve and the elders may go on their business.
Joseph condescended to do their business for them. Joseph condescended to
offer himself for president of the United States, and it was a great
condescension.
Do you want a spokesman? Here are Elder Rigdon, Brother Amasa Lyman
[whom Joseph expected to take as a counselor] and myself. Do you want the
church properly organized, or do you want a spokesman to be chief cook and
bottle-washer? Elder Rigdon claims to be spokesman to the Prophet. Very
well, he was; but can he now act in that office: If he wants now to be a
spokesman to the Prophet, he must go to the other side of the veil, for
the Prophet is there, but Elder Rigdon is here. Why will Elder Rigdon be a
fool? Who knows anything of the priesthood, or of the organization of the
kingdom of God. I am plain.
Does this church want it as God organized it? Or do you want to clip
the power of the priesthood, and let those who have the keys of the
priesthood go and build up the kingdom in all the world, wherever the
people will hear them?
If there is a spokesman, if he is a king and priest, let him go and
build up a kingdom unto himself; that is his right and it is the right of
many here but the Twelve are at the head of it.
I want to live on the earth and spread truth through all the world.
You saints of latter-days want things right. If 10,000 men rise up and say
they have the Prophet Joseph Smith's shoes, I know they are impostors. In
the priesthood you have a right to build up a kingdom, if you know how the
church is organized.
Now, if you want Sidney Rigdon or William Law to lead you, or anybody
else, you are welcome to them; but I tell you, in the name of the Lord
that no man can put another between the Twelve and the Prophet Joseph.
Why? Because Joseph was their file leader, and he has committed into their
hands the keys of the kingdom in this last dispensation, for all the
world; don't put a thread between the priesthood and God.
I will ask, who has stood next to Joseph and Hyrum? I have, and I
will stand next to him. We have a head, and that head is the Apostleship,
the spirit and power of Joseph, and we can now begin to see the necessity
of that Apostleship.
Brother Rigdon was at his side---not above. No man has a right to
counsel the Twelve but Joseph Smith. Think of these things. You cannot
appoint a prophet; but if you let the Twelve remain and act in their
place, the keys of the kingdom are with them and they can manage the
affairs of the church and direct all things aright.
Now, all this does not lessen the character of President Rigdon: let
him magnify his calling, and Joseph will want him beyond the veil---
let him be careful what he does, lest that thread which binds us
together is cut asunder. May God bless you all.'
(Much more was said by President Young, but not written).
SPEECH OF AMASA M. LYMAN Amasa Lyman said:---- `I do not rise to
electioneer. I am gratified with the open, frank and plain exposition of
President Young. He has seen the relation I bear to my deceased brother
[i. e. Joseph Smith]. I never did conceive it gave me a precedence to go
before the Twelve.
I do not make exceptions to anything he has said. I believe there is
no power, or officer, or means wanted to carry on the work, but what is in
the Twelve. I am satisfied that no man can carry on the work, but the
power that is in the Twelve, as has been stated.
There is one thing to secure the salvation of this people, and that
is not in union alone, it is for you to know the right and be united--- it
has been presented to you by President Young, and I will back him up. All
I design to do is to redeem my pledge.
President Young has stood next to the Prophet Joseph, with the
Twelve, and I have stood next to them, and I will stand next to them. I
have been at the back of Joseph Smith, and will be at the back of the
Twelve forever, and then we will be saved.
There is no need of a President, we have a head here. What is that
head? The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are the head. We now see the
necessity of the Apostleship.
I might rise up as well as any other man to ask for the Presidency,
but I could not do it without endangering my salvation. This is the power
that turns the key to bestow salvation through all the land, in the way
that Joseph commenced it, the first one called to do the same in all the
world. If Joseph Smith had any power to bear off the kingdom of God, the
Twelve have the same.
I could not advocate a choosing of a President, and myself a
candidate; so then you know the place I occupy is, to stand to the Twelve
the same as the Twelve did to Joseph, either on one side or the other. I
do not want to go before them or to fall asleep. I want to see the kingdom
roll forth by our united faith and efforts.'
President Rigdon called upon W. W. Phelps to speak in his behalf, as
he could not speak.
SPEECH OF ELDER W. W. PHELPS---NO SUPPORT TO SIDNEY RIGDON W. W.
Phelps arose and said:---- `With the knowledge that I have I cannot
suppose but that this congregation will act aright this day. I believe
enough has been said to prepare the minds of the people to act.
I have known many of them for 14 years, and I have always known them
to submit with deference to the authorities of the church. I have seen the
elders of Israel and the people---take their lives in their hands and go
without purse or scrip in winter and in summer. I have seen them prepare
for war, and ready to pour out their hearts' blood, and that is an
evidence that they will walk by counsel.
I am happy to see this little lake of faces, and to see the same
spirit and disposition manifested here today, as it was the day after the
bloody tragedy, when Joseph and Hyrum Smith were brought home dead to this
city, Then you submitted to the law's slow delay, and handed the matter
over to God; and I see the same thing today---
you are now determined as one man to sustain the authorities of the
church, and I am happy that the men who were on Joseph's right and left
hand submit themselves to the authority of the priesthood.
I have feelings about this, especially for President Rigdon, and I
want to say that there is a quorum that the Twelve belong to, and that the
people will receive an endowment. I broUght President Rigdon into that
quorum, and he received in part the blessings. I could not bear the
thought of President Rigdon going into the world without his endowment. He
did obtain part, and I hope he will submit.
I want Brother Amasa to stand on the side of the Twelve, and they are
wanted there still---let them go on and sustain them in that high office.
You cannot put in a guardian of the church.
We have hitherto walked by sight, and if a man wanted to know
anything he had only to go to Brother Joseph. Joseph has gone, but he has
not left us comfortless.
I want to say that Brother Joseph came and enlightened me two days
after he was buried. He came the same as when he was alive, and in a
moment appeared to me in his own house. He said, `Tell the drivers to
drive on.' I asked if the building was on wheels? He said, `certainly'. I
spoke, and away it went. We drove all round the hills and valleys, He then
told the drivers to drive on over the river into Iowa. I told him Devil
Creek was before us. He said, `Drive over Devil Creek; I don't care for
Devil Creek or any other creek;' and we did so. Then I awoke.
There is a combination of persons in this city who are in continual
intercourse with William and Wilson Law, who are at the bottom of the
matter to destroy all that stand for Joseph, and there are persons now in
this city who are only wanting power to murder all the persons that still
hold on to Joseph; but let us go ahead and build up the Temple, and then
you will be endowed. When the Temple is completed all the honorable
mothers in Israel will be endowed, as well as the elders.
If you want to do right, uphold the Twelve. If they die, I am willing
to die with them; but do your duty and you will be endowed. I will sustain
the Twelve as long as I have breath.
When Joseph was going away he said he was going to die, and I said I
was willing to die with him; but as I am now alive, as a lawyer in Israel,
I am determined to live.
I want you all to recollect that Joseph and Hyrum have only been
removed from the earth, and they now counsel and converse with the Gods
beyond the reach of powder and ball.'
REMARKS OF ELDER PARLEY P. PRATT Parley P. Pratt said:---- `What has
been said has been well said. If there are men here who are our enemies,
I'll tell you when they will cease to be here: they will be here while you
will deal with them. If I exchange property or deal with men, I do it with
those whom I know to be faithful.
If there are wicked men here, it is because we support them. Stop
dealing with them, and they will go away. Will I support them? No, I would
deal with all honest men whom I know to be such.
I am willing to do good to all men, especially to the household of
faith. Our enemies will cease to dwell here when you cease to deal with
them. Mobs and wicked men will cease when you cease to support them.
I know we can all live and be happy too, when we deal with honest
men. If a man wants a doctor or a lawyer, he will send directly for the
worst man he can find.
I would die a natural death sooner than I would have a wicked doctor
to help me off. I would go without suing all the days of my life before I
would go to a lawyer to sue I will not say anything about the merchants,
because you all know them.'
PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG'S SECOND SPEECH President Brigham Young again
arose and said;---- `There is more business than can be done this
afternoon, but we can accomplish all we want to have done without calling
this convention of the whole church. I am going to present to you the
leading items.
I do not ask you to take my counsel or advice alone, but every one of
you act for yourselves; but if Brother Rigdon is the person you want to
lead you, vote for him, but not unless you intend to follow him and
support him as you did Joseph. Do not say so without you mean to take his
counsel hereafter.
And I would say the same for the Twelve, don't make a covenant to
support them unless you intend to abide by their counsel; and if they do
not counsel you as you please, don't turn round and oppose them.
I want every man, before he enters into a covenant, to know what he
is going to do; but we want to know if this people will support the
priesthood in the name of Israel's God. If you say you will, do so.
We want men appointed to take charge of the business that did lay on
the shoulders of Joseph. Let me say to you that this kingdom will spread
more than ever.
The Twelve have the power now---the seventies, the elders and all of
you can have power to go and build up the kingdom in the name of Israel's
God. Nauvoo will not hold all the people that will come into the kingdom.
We want to build the Temple, so as to get our endowment; and if we do
our best, and satan will not let us build it, we will go into the
wilderness and we will receive the endowment, for we will receive an
endowment anyhow.
Will you abide our counsel? I again say, my soul for any man's, if
they will abide our counsel, that they will go right into heaven. We have
all the signs and tokens to give to the porter at the door, and he will
let us in.
I will ask you as quorums, Do you want Brother Rigdon to stand
forward as your leader, your guide, your spokesman. President Rigdon wants
me to bring up the other question first, and that is. Does the church
want, and is it their only desire to sustain the Twelve as the First
Presidency of this people?
Here are the Apostles, the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine
and Covenants---they are written on the tablet of my heart. If the church
want the Twelve to stand as the head, the First Presidency of the Church,
and at the head of this kingdom in all the world, stand next to Joseph,
walk up into their calling, and hold the keys of this kingdom, every man,
every women, every quorum is now put in order, and you are now the sole
controllers of it.
All that are in favor of this, in all the congregation of the saints,
manifest it by holding up the right hand. (There was a universal vote). If
there are any of the contrary mind, every man and every woman who does not
want the Twelve to preside, lift up your hands in like manner. (No hands
up). This supersedes the other question, and trying it by quorums.
We feel as though we could take Brother Rigdon in our bosom along
with us; we want such men as Brother Rigdon. He has been sent away by
Brother Joseph to build up a kingdom; let him keep the instructions and
calling; let him raise up a mighty kingdom in Pittsburgh, and we will lift
up his hands to Almighty God. I think we may have a printing office and a
gathering there. If the devil still tries to kill us he will have enough
to do.
The next is President Marks. Our feelings are to let him stand as
president of the stake, as heretofore. We can build the Temple, etc.
You did not know who you had amongst you. Joseph so loved this people
that he gave his life for them; Hyrum loved his brother and this people
unto death. Joseph and Hyrum have given their lives for the church. But
very few knew Joseph's character; he loved you unto death---you did not
know it until after his death: he has now sealed his testimony with his
blood.
If the Twelve had been here we would not have seen him given up ---he
should not have been given up. He was in your midst, but you did not know
him; he has been taken away, for the people are not worthy of him.
The world is wide, I can preach in England, Ireland, Scotland,
France, Germany, etc. I can preach in all the world, and the devils cannot
find us. I'll swear to you I will not be given up.
There is much to be done. You have men among you who sleep with one
eye open. The foundation is laid by our Prophet, and we will build
thereon; no other foundation can be laid but that which is laid, and we
will have our endowment, if the Lord will.
As the authorities do not want us to do military duty, don't do it.
If it is necessary, my neck is ready for the knife; as for myself, I am
determined to build up the kingdom of God: and by and by there will be a
gleaning of grapes, and it may be said, `To your tents, O Israel'.
We can build on the foundation that was laid by the Prophet. Joseph
has finished his work, and all the devils in hell and all the mobbers on
earth could not take his life until he had accomplished his work. God
said, I will put a veil over his eyes and lead him up to the slaughter
like a sheep to be killed, for the people are not worthy of him, though
God loves this people.
Let no man suppose that the kingdom is rent from you; that it is not
organized. If all the quorums of the church were slain, except the high
priests, they would rise up with the keys of the kingdom, and have the
powers of the priesthood upon them, and build up the kingdom, and the
devil cannot help himself.
You can go to a healthy country, buy the land, and don't let a cursed
scoundrel get in your midst. Let there be good men, good women, and
whenever a man comes with a wheelbarrow-full of goods don't sell him land,
don't let him a house, nor buy of him.
Suppose we had ten thousand such places, and increasing in greatness,
perfectly free from these poor devils, we should feel better than we do
now. Let us all be humble and get our endowments---all be humble,
industrious and prudent, what sort of a kingdom would it be? The
foundation is laid for more than we can think or talk about today.
Is it the will of this congregation that they will be tithed until
the Temple is finished, as they have hitherto been? If so, signify it by
the uplifted hand. (The vote was unanimous).
The men will act that have never acted before, and they will have the
power and authority to do it. Is it the mind of this congregation to loose
the hands of the Twelve, and enable us to go and preach to all the world?
We want to know the feelings of the people. Is it your will to support the
Twelve in all the world in their missions? (The congregation sustained
this question by a unanimous vote). Will you leave it to the Twelve to
dictate about the finances of the church? and will it be the mind of this
people that the Twelve teach what will be the duties of the bishops in
handling the affairs of the church? I want this, because twelve men can do
it just as well as calling this immense congregation together at any other
time. (A unanimous vote).
We shall have a patriarch, and the right is in the family of Joseph
Smith, his brothers, his sons, or some one of his relations. Here is Uncle
John, he has been ordained a patriarch. Brother Samuel would have taken
the office if he had been alive; it would have been his right;
the right is in Uncle John, or one of his brothers (read sec. iii,
par. 17, Doctrine and Covenants.) I know that it would have belonged to
Samuel. But as it is, if you leave it to the Twelve, they will wait until
they know who is the man. Will you leave it to the Twelve, and they
dictate the matter. (A unanimous vote). I know it will be let alone for
the present.
I feel to bring up Brother Rigdon; we are of one mind with him and he
with us. Will this congregation uphold him in the place he occupies by the
prayer of faith and let him be one with us and we with him. (Unanimous).
The Twelve will dictate and see to other matters. There will be a
committee for the Temple; and now let men stand to their posts and be
faithful.'
Adjourned to Oct. 6, Conference.
Benediction by Elder Parley P. Pratt.
COMMENT OF THE CHURCH HISTORIANS WHO COMPILED THIS DATA OF THE CHURCH
HISTORY Thus closes the History of Joseph Smith, the great Prophet, Seer
and Revelator, whom God has chosen to lay the foundation for the
establishment of his church and kingdom upon the earth in the last
dispensation and fullness of times.
He performed as great and mighty a work as any man that ever
tabernacled in the flesh, save Jesus only. His mission lasted nearly
seventeen years; from the time he received the plates from the angel
Moroni on the 22nd day of Sept., 1827, to the 27th of June, 1844, when he
was martyred in Carthage Jail, under the pledged protection of the
governor of Illinois, Thomas Ford.
The History of Joseph Smith is now before the world, and we are
satisfied that a history more correct in its details than this was never
published. To have it strictly correct, the greatest possible pains have
been taken by the historians and clerks engaged in the work. They were eye
and ear witnesses of nearly all the transactions recorded in this history,
most of which were reported as they transpired, and, where they were not
personally present, they have had access to those who were.
Moreover, since the death of the Prophet Joseph, the history has been
carefully revised under the strict inspection of President Brigham Young,
and approved of by him.
TESTIMONY OF THE CHURCH HISTORIANS We, therefore, hereby bear our
testimony to all the world, unto whom these words shall come, that the
History of Joseph Smith is true, and is one of the most authentic
histories ever written.
We were, much of the time, associated with him in his travels and
ministry since he organized the Church of Christ upon the earth. He
labored diligently for the salvation and benefit of the human family. He
ever taught and practiced, in public and in private, virtue, holiness and
truth.
His brother Hyrum was martyred at the same time with him. He, also,
was a great and good man, a wise counselor to his brother Joseph and a
Prophet and Patriarch in the church, and the spirit of his office was with
him up to the time of his death.
They were slain for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus
Christ, and the people and nation who have persecuted them unto death and
shed their blood will assuredly find their words fulfilled upon their
heads, even in speedy and certain destruction, as were the words of the
Savior fulfilled upon the Jewish nation for stoning and killing the
Prophets and shedding the blood of the Lord's Anointed. GEORGE A. SMITH,
W. W. WOODRUFF, Historians.
EXCERPTS FROM THE MANUSCRIPT HISTORY OF BRIGHAM YOUNG FROM AUGUST 9,
1844 TO OCTOBER 8, 1848
Explanation PART V deals with the actual beginning of the authorized
administration by the Twelve Apostles in their Presidency of the Church;
and gives the detail of their administration from August 9, 1844 to
December 5. 1847, when Brigham Young was nominated by the Council of the
Twelve Apostles near Winter Quarters; and by October 8, 1848, the
nomination had been presented and unanimously sustained by all the major
divisions of the church. The subject matter of the period is taken almost
exclusively from The History of Brigham Young, (Ms.)
This period officially shows the administration of the Quorum of the
Twelve acting as the Presidency of the Church, and vindicates that
Presidency for harmony and effectiveness. It has never before been
published and will be found a rich mine of original information that will
be of high value to the church for all time, in that it will constitute an
appeal to ultimate authority for events of this period, and a vindication
of the men who functioned in the Presidency of the Church during that
time.
The main features covered in the period are the church life in
Nauvoo; the completion of the Temple with the administration of the sacred
ordinances therein; the establishment of the quorums of the priesthood.
especially the high priests and the seventies. It may be said that it is
especially a period of instruction for the ministry of the church and
important in developing the seventies' organization therein. The period
also deals with the exodus of the church from Nauvoo, the journey to the
Missouri frontiers, thence westward over the plains and the mountains to
the Salt Lake Valley, the beginning of settlements there and the
installation of the second First Presidency of the Church----Brigham
Young, Heber C. Kimball and Willard Richards.
CHAPTER XX
EVENTS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE SUSTAINING OF THE QUORUM OF
THE TWELVE----AS THE PRESIDENCY OF THE CHURCH----RESUMPTION OF CHURCH
ACTIVITIES----PERPETUATION OF THE POLICY OF THE PROPHET
Friday, August 9, 1844.----I met in council with Elders Heber C.
Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, Willard Richards,
George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman and eleven others at my house,
On motion of Elder Heber C. Kimball, Bishop Newel K. Whitney and
George Miller were appointed to settle the affairs of the late
Trustee-in-Trust, Joseph Smith and be prepared to enter upon their duties
as Trustees of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Nauvoo House Committee were instructed to wind up their business
and report.
Patriarch John Smith [local] had the privilege of appointing another
president at Macedonia in his stead and locating in Nauvoo at his option.
Conversation ensued relative to the affairs and liabilities of the
church and the building of the Nauvoo House.
Saturday, 10.----The following is an extract from the Minutes of the
Nauvoo City Council:
`City council met at 9 a. m. and subscribed about $80.00 for the aid
of the police. Councilors (city) Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, George
A. Smith and Hyrum Kimball in addition relinquished their dues as
councilors that the taxes might be lessened and the police be paid, * * *
Captain Hosea Stout said the police were willing to watch the city while
it was necessary and all they wanted was to live [i. e. have their living
provided for] while they did it.
Daniel Spencer was elected to fill the remainder of the term of the
late martyred Mayor Joseph Smith,
An ordinance was passed allowing $100.00 per year to the mayor, and
$1.00 a day to the councilors and aldermen while in session.
Also an ordinance prohibiting brothels and disorderly characters.'
Sunday, 11.----Forenoon meeting. At the stand Elder Lyman Wight
preached about leading a company away into the wilderness. Afternoon,
Elder Wm. Hyde preached. At 3 p. m., a few of the authorities met at my
house to pray for deliverance from the mob.
At a conference held in Southfield Center, Oakland county, Michigan
on the 9th, 10th and 11th inst. there were represented 14 branches,
containing upwards of 200 members and 37 officers. Elders W. Burton and
Mephiboseth Sirrine, presidents.
Monday, 12.----The Twelve Apostles met in council and made the
following appointments:
That Elder Amasa Lyman, who was ordained an Apostle by the direction
of President Joseph Smith August 20 1842, stand as a member of the Quorum
of the Twelve;
That Elder John Taylor hire the printing office and establishment of
the Nauvoo Neighbor and the Times and Seasons from the church;
That Elder Wilford Woodruff go on a mission to England and preside
over the churches there and on the adjacent isles and continent, taking
charge of the printing and take his family with him;
That the general superintendencies' direction and control of the
emigration from England be in the name of Brigham Young, President of the
Quorum of the Twelve;
That the continent of America be organized into districts and high
priests appointed to preside over each district;
That Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and Willard Richards direct the
continent and appoint presidents to manage the general affairs of the
church;
That Lyman Wight go to Texas as he chooses, with his company, also
George Miller and Lucine Woodworth, if they desire to go;
That Willard Richards continue the history of the church and be
supported;
Elder Hyde arrived at Nauvoo from his eastern mission.
Wednesday, 14.----I attended meeting of the Twelve, Temple and Nauvoo
House Committees and the stone cutters for the Temple at the Seventies'
Hall. Agreed to raise the wages of the windlass men to $1.50 per day. The
meeting terminated in a feeling of renewed determination to prosecute the
work upon the Temple.
Thursday, 15.----The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met at my house.
Many matters were talked over.
The council resolved to bear off the kingdom of God in all the world,
in truth, honesty, virtue and holiness, and to continue to set their faces
as a flint against every species of wickedness, vice and dishonesty in all
its forms.
I met in a prayer circle with the Twelve and a few others in the
afternoon and prayed for the sick.
The following is from the Times and Seasons:
AN EPISTLE OF THE TWELVE TO THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY
SAINTS, IN NAUVOO AND ALL THE WORLD---GREETING: `Beloved
Brethren:---Forasmuch as the saints have been called to suffer deep
affliction and persecution, and also to mourn the loss of our beloved
Prophet and also our Patriarch who have suffered a cruel martyrdom for the
testimony of Jesus, having voluntarily yielded themselves to cruel
murderers who had sworn to take their lives, and thus like good shepherds
have laid down their lives for the sheep, therefore it becomes necessary
for us to address you at this time on several important subjects.
You are now without a prophet present with you in the flesh to guide
you; but you are not without Apostles, who hold the keys of power to seal
on earth that which shall be sealed in heaven, and to preside over all the
affairs of the church in all the world; being still under the direction of
the same God. and being dictated by the same spirit, having the same
manifestations of the Holy Ghost to dictate all the affairs of the church
in all the world, to build up the kingdom upon the foundation that the
Prophet Joseph has laid, who still holds the keys of this last
dispensation, and will hold them to all eternity, as a king and priest
unto the Most High God, ministering in heaven, on earth, or among the
spirits of the departed dead, as seemeth good to him who sent him.
Let no man presume for a moment that his place will be filled by
another; for, remember he stands in his own place, and always will; and
the Twelve Apostles of this dispensation stand in their own place and
always will, both in time and in eternity, to minister, preside and
regulate the affairs of the whole church.
How vain are the imaginations of the children of men, to presume for
a moment that the slaughter of one, two or a hundred of the leaders of
this church could destroy an organization, so perfect in itself and so
harmoniously arranged that it will stand while one member of it is left
alive upon the earth. Brethren be not alarmed, for if the Twelve should be
taken away still there are powers and offices in existence which will bear
the kingdom of God triumphantly victorious in all the world. This church
may have prophets many, and apostles many, but they are all to stand in
due time in their proper organization, under the direction of those who
hold the keys.
On the subject of the gathering, let it be distinctly understood that
the city of Nauvoo and the Temple of our Lord are to continue to be built
up according to the pattern which has been commenced, and which has
progressed with such rapidity thus far.
The city must be built up and supported by the gathering of those who
have capital, and are willing to lay it out for the erection of every
branch of industry and manufacture, which is necessary for the employment
and support of the poor, or of those who depend wholly on their labor;
while farmers who have capital must come on and purchase farms in the
adjoining country, and improve and cultivate the same.---In this way all
may enjoy plenty, and our infant city may grow and flourish, and be
strengthened an hundred fold; and unless this is done, it is impossible
for the gathering to progress, because those who have no other dependence
cannot live together without industry and employment.
Therefore, let capitalists hasten here; and they may be assured we
have nerves, sinews, fingers, skill and ingenuity sufficient in our midst
to carry on all the necessary branches of industry.
The Temple must be completed by a regular system of tithing,
according to the commandments of the Lord, which he has given as a law
unto this church, by the mouth of his servant Joseph.
Therefore, as soon as the Twelve have proceeded to a full and
complete organization of the branches abroad, let every member proceed
immediately to tithe himself or herself, a tenth of all their property and
money, and pay it into the hands of the Twelve; or into the hands of such
bishops as have been, or shall be appointed by them to receive the same,
for the building of the Temple for the support of the priesthood according
to the scriptures, and the revelations of God; and then let them continue
to pay in a tenth of their income from that time forth, for this is a law
unto this church as much binding on their conscience as any other law or
ordinance. And let this law or ordinance be henceforth taught to all who
present themselves for admission into this church, that they may know the
sacrifice and tithing which the Lord requires, and perform it; or else not
curse the church with a mock membership as many have done heretofore. This
will furnish a steady public fund for all sacred purposes, and save the
leaders from constant debt and embarrassment, and the members can then
employ the remainder of their capital in every branch of enterprize,
industry, and charity, as seemeth them good; only holding themselves in
readiness to be advised in such manner as shall be for the good of
themselves and the whole society; and thus all things can move in harmony,
and for the general benefit and satisfaction of all concerned.
The United States and adjoining provinces will be immediately
organized by the Twelve into proper districts, in a similar manner as they
have already done in England and Scotland, and high priests will be
appointed over each district, to preside over the same, and to call
quarterly conferences for the regulation and representation of the
branches included in the same, and for the furtherance of the gospel; and
also to take measures for a yearly representation in a general conference,
This will save the trouble and confusion of the running to and fro of
elders; detect false doctrine and false teachers, and make every elder
abroad accountable to the conference in which he may happen to labor,
Bishops will also be appointed in the larger branches, to attend to the
management of the temporal funds, such as tithings and funds for the poor,
according to the revelations of God and to be judges in Israel.
The gospel in its fullness and purity, must now roll forth through
every neighborhood of this widespread country, and to all the world; and
millions will awake to its truths and obey its precepts; and the kingdoms
of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ.
As rulers and people have taken counsel together against the Lord,
and against his anointed, and have murdered him who would have formed and
saved the nation, it is not wisdom for the saints to have anything to do
with politics, voting, or president-making, at present. None of the
candidates who are now before the public for that high office, have
manifested any disposition or intention to redress wrong or restore right,
liberty or law; and therefore woe unto him who gives countenance to
corruption, or partakes of murder, robbery, or other cruel deeds. Let us
then stand aloof from all their corrupt men and measures, and wait, at
least, till a man is found, who, if elected, will carry out the enlarged
principles, universal freedom, and equal rights and protection, expressed
in the views of our beloved Prophet and martyr, General Joseph Smith.
We do not, however, offer this political advice as binding on the
consciences of others; we are perfectly willing that every member of this
church should use his own freedom in all political matters; but we give it
as our own rule of action, and for the benefit of those who may choose to
profit by it.
Now, dear brethren, to conclude our present communication, we would
exhort you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, to be humble and faithful
before God, and before all the people, and give no occasion for any man to
speak evil of you, but preach the gospel in its simplicity and purity, and
practice righteousness, and seek to establish the influence of truth,
peace and love among mankind, and in so doing the Lord will bless you, and
make you a blessing to all people.
You may expect to hear from us again. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG Nauvoo,
August 15th, 1844. President of the Twelve.'
August 15, (continued).----Elders Noah Rogers and Benjamin F. Grouard
wrote from Tahiti of this date that they and Elder Addison Pratt had
arrived at the Society Islands. Their vessel had stopped at Toboui to
refit and obtain supplies, where, being favorably received by the natives
Elder Pratt remained. Elders Rogers and Grouard proceeded to Tahiti and
found the people in great confusion in consequence of an invasion by the
French. The English missionaries opposed the elders bitterly, but having
become alarmed in consequence of the war between the French and the
Islanders they had mostly left the island. The elders found great
difficulty in engaging the attention of the people in consequence of the
excitement of the war. Queen Pomare's force having been defeated, the
natives retired to the interior. Elder Pratt had baptized several
Americans who were residing at Toboui which is a small island about 300
miles from Tahiti.
Saturday, 17.----In company with Elders Kimball, Woodruff and others
I went on to the Temple walls, viewed the country, encouraged the workmen
and counseled Brother Woodruff in relation to his mission to England.
Afternoon, spent considerable time in the Tithing Office.
Elder John Brown wrote from Monroe county, Mississippi, of his
preaching in Kentucky, and in Hickman, Williamson, and Sumner counties,
Tennessee; also in Tuscaloosa county, Alabama; thence he proceeded to
Perry county, Alabama, where he found a branch of fifteen raised up by
Elder James Brown, and where he and Brother Haden W. Church, baptized
forty-five. They continued their labors during last winter in Alabama and
Mississippi. A conference was held in Alabama, in April, at which several
elders were ordained. From this conference, Brother Church went to
Tennessee and Brother B. L. Clapp and John Brown to Mississippi. Brother
Clapp soon returned to Nauvoo and Brother Brown held a conference in July
when thirty-nine were reported as having been baptized since last
conference.
Sunday, 18.----I preached to the saints in the morning, The following
synopsis of my discourse and minutes of the meeting were reported by Elder
Woodruff:
PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG'S DISCOURSE `I have many things to speak of.
It was my mind in the first place that we should have a suitable time to
meditate upon all matters, and weigh them, even every subject wherein we
felt interested. When the question was asked me if the elders should
continue to baptize for the dead, I replied that I had no counsel to give
upon that subject at present, but thought it best to attend to other
matters in the meantime.
I have learned some things I did not know when I came home. I
discover a disposition in the sheep to scatter, now the shepherd is taken
away. I do not say that it will never be right for this people to go from
here or scatter abroad; but I do say wait until the time comes, or until
you are counseled to do so. The report has gone forth through the city
that the Twelve have a secret understanding with those men who are going
away and taking companies with them, that they shall take away all they
can; and although the Twelve will blow it up in public, yet privately they
wish it to go on, but if they were the last words I had to say before
going into the eternal worlds I would swear by the Holy Trinity that such
a report is utterly false, and there is not a word of truth in it. There
is no man who has any right to lead away one soul out of this city by the
consent of the Twelve, except Lyman Wight and George Miller, they have had
the privilege of taking the `Pine Company' where they pleased, but not
another soul has the consent of the Twelve to go with them. There is no
man who has any liberty to lead away people into the wilderness from this
church, or to lead them anywhere else, by the consent of the Twelve or the
church, except in the case above named----and I tell you in the name of
Jesus Christ that if Lyman Wight and George Miller take a course contrary
to our counsel and will not act in concert with us, they will be damned
and go to destruction---- and if men will not stop striving to be great
and exalted, and lead away parties from us, thereby weakening our hands,
they will fall and not rise again----and I will destroy their influence in
this church with the help of God and my brethren. I wish you to distinctly
understand that the counsel of the Twelve is for every family that does
not belong to the Pine Company to stay here in Nauvoo, and build up the
Temple and get your endowments; do not scatter; `united we stand, divided
we fall'. It has been whispered about that all who go into the wilderness
with Wight and Miller will get their endowments, but they cannot give an
endowment in the wilderness. If we do not carry out the plan Joseph has
laid down and the pattern he has given for us to work by, we cannot get
any further endowment ----I want this to sink deep into your hearts that
you may remember it. If you stir up the flame of dissension, will you get
an endowment? No! You get a party to run here and another there, to divide
our strength, and weaken our hands, and our enemies will flock around us
and destroy us----in that case you will not get your endowments, but will
sink and not rise;---- go to hell and not to the bosom of Abraham. Do the
people leave here because they are afraid? Are you cowards? Do you fear
those who have power to kill the body only? If you leave this place for
fear of the mob, before God tells you to go, you will have no place of
rest, but you will flee from place to place and go like the Jews, until
God raises up some other people to redeem you, for if the devil scares you
from this place he will scare you from all other places. Let no man go
from this place but the pine country brethren, but stay here and sow,
plant, build, and put your plowshares into the prairies: one plowshare
will do more to drive off the mob than two guns. Let us stay here where
the bones of Joseph, Hyrum, Samuel, Don Carlos, and Father Smith are.
While Joseph was alive he said `If I am slain in battle or fall by the
hands of my enemies I want my body brought to Nauvoo and laid in the tomb
I have prepared.' I would rather have the dead body of the Prophet than
some men who are alive and I would rather have the clothes of the Prophet
stuffed with straw for president of the United States than any man whose
name is now before the nation as a candidate, for the straw would not do
any harm.
We want to build the Temple in this place, if we have to build it as
the Jews built the walls of the Temple in Jerusalem, with a sword in one
hand and the trowel in the other. How easily some men are scared! I have
not been frightened yet, and I know of other men who have not.
Do you suppose the mouth of God is closed, to be opened no more unto
us? If this were the case I would not give the ashes of a rye straw for
the salvation of the church. If God has ceased to speak by the Holy Ghost,
or to give revelation, there is no salvation; but this is not the case.
There seems to be a disposition by many to leave Nauvoo and go into
the wilderness or somewhere else. Suppose we should all go into the
wilderness and then ask God to give us an endowment, and he should ask if
we were driven from Nauvoo, and who drove us? The devil drove us would be
the answer; he might say, well, did you not know that I had power over the
devil? Yes, but one said I would not give a jackknife for all Nauvoo, and
another said, I would not give a pair of mules for the best farm in
Hancock county and I was afraid; would the Lord give an endowment to a
people who would be frightened away from their duty?
Concerning those who are wishing to lead away parties contrary to
counsel, I would not wish them damned worse, than to have a company after
their own liking go with them, for they will soon quarrel among
themselves; and if we should go to the wilderness and ask the Lord to give
us an endowment, he might ask us, saying, Did I not give you rock in
Nauvoo to build the Temple with? Yes. Did I not through my providence
furnish men to quarry and cut the stone and prepare it for the building?
Yes, Did I not give you means to build the Temple there? Yes. Very well,
had you died in Nauvoo, on the walls of the Temple, or in your fields, I
would have taken you to myself and raised up men to officiate for you, and
you would have enjoyed the highest glory. Did you make a sacrifice by
tithing? No. Well I do not wonder you did not believe I had power over the
devil.
Such may go away but I want to have the faithful stay here to build
the Temple and settle the city. We shall require the tenth of all your pro
as a tithing for the building of the Temple and for the poor and for the
pries want my support and living by the church hereafter, so that I can
give my whole time to the business of the church. I have always supported
myself heretofore in all my travels and labors, with the aid of my
brethren.
Joseph has always been preserved from his enemies, until now, but he
has sealed his testimony with his blood, and his testament is now in
force. While the testator lived it was all in his hands, but now he is
dead.
There is no remission of sins without the shedding of blood. You
will soon wake up and know things as they are----there has been a great
debt paid; there will be no need of more blood of the saints being shed at
present, by and by you will understand and see that all is right.
Woe! woe! woe! unto all who have shed woe! the blood of the saints
and the Lord's anointed. It must needs be that offenses come, but woe unto
that man through whom they come.
To those who want to go away from this place, I would say walt until
the time comes. I will give you the key. North and South America is Zion
and as soon as the Temple is done and you get your endowments you can go
and build up stakes, but do not be in haste, wait until the Lord says go.
If you have the Spirit of God you can discover right from wrong---- when
all is right with the priesthood and a man rises up and speaks by the
Spirit of God and just right, all will say, Amen, but when a man rises up
and talks as smooth as oil, if he is not right, there will be many queries
about it, it will not edify the body [i. e. the people]. I give this as a
key. You may go all over North and South America and build up stakes when
the time comes. The whole continent of America must be organized into
districts and presiding elders appointed over each district: the time has
come when all things must be set in order.
I wish the saints to let their bickerings cease, and a strict order
of things be introduced; we shall nor harbor blacklegs, counterfeiters and
bogus-makers; we know all about them, they have been in our midst long
enough. I advise all the saints to have no dealings with such men; let
them alone, The time has come that they should be wiped out of our midst,
let the ungodly dealers alone; and as to the doctors who are in our midst,
who are our enemies, I say let them alone, for I have no doubt but that
three to one who have died in this place had a doctor. I say woe unto you
lawyers, for your whole study is to put down truth and put a lie in its
stead. I want the lawyers to know that we have common sense. They want to
make you believe that when you spell `baker' it means cider or whiskey.
Now let the lawyers and doctors alone and leave off bitterness and evil
speaking, and you will build the Temple and get an endowment. All ye
lawyers go away and let us alone and when we get full of the devil and
want you, we will send for you, we may then have a more convenient season.
I want to say to all who profess to be saints, do not harbor
blacklegs, counterfeiters and bogus-makers, wipe them away; it is time to
carry out the design of our Prophet; do cease to employ doctors, lawyers,
and merchants who will empty your purses and then mob you. Store your
grain in Nauvoo for you will want it here to eat while you are building
the Temple. I say to the hands on the Temple, be united; and to the Temple
Committee, do not turn away any person because he is an Englishman,
Scotchman, Irishman or of any other nation; but employ every man you can
and build the Temple and your homes. I would rather pay out every cent I
have to build up this place and get an endowment, if I were driven the
next minute without anything to take with me, As to the doctors, let them
go. I can prove that a doctor in this place doctored a woman that was in
the family way, and did not know it until she was delivered, and both
woman and child died, and if you will employ them, you will all die.
There is a distinction between the law of the land and the law of the
church. You have the privilege of keeping all shops that do not come in
contact with the law of the state, county, or city; so I will evade the
law of the land, says the dealer, and give away whiskey and sell a little
tobacco or something else and charge enough for both; but the law of the
church will reach such men and if they are members they should be cut off.
I dreamed that I saw a fruit tree in which I went in search of fruit. I
soon discovered that some of the main branches on the top were dead. It
seemed to me necessary to cut off the dead branches in order to save the
tree so I told some person to help me cut them off. The person stepped on
to a large green limb and was afraid it would break so I put my shoulder
under it and held it up till the dead branch was cut off, the green limb
cracked but did not break. After all the dry limbs were cut off the wounds
healed up and the tree grew finely.
Let us cut off the dead branches of the church that good fruit may
grow and a voice will soon be heard, go and build up Zion and the Temple
of the Lord.
The seventies will be organized and a presidency of seven men will be
chosen out of the first quorum to preside over the first ten quorums.'
August 18, (continued) .----At a conference in Tazewell county,
Virginia, Richard H. Kinnamon presiding, Elders Hamilton and Park were
appointed to labor in Tazewell, Smith and Washington counties. Elders King
and Lambson were appointed to labor in Greenbrier and Monroe counties,
Elders Carter and Biles in Giles and Roanoke counties, Elder Hyatt in
Patrick county, Elder Pitts in Giles county, Elders R. H. Kinnamon and
Stephen Litz in South Carolina and Elder J. T. Crow was sent on a mission
south.
Several were called to the priesthood; during conference the
sacrament was administered and one person baptized. Elder Robert Hamilton
preached.
Monday, 19.----Elder Willard Richards called on Emma Smith, widow of
the Prophet, for she did not feel disposed to give it up at present. (The
Prophet's "Translation" of the Bible Sought.
I met in council with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson
Pratt, Willard Richards, Wilford Woodruff, George A. Smith, Amasa M.
Lyman, Erastus Snow, William W. Phelps and Jonathan Dunham at My house,
when it was voted that Dan Jones receive an order on Elder Woodruff,
Liverpool, for five hundred dollars to assist him on his mission to Wales,
having confidence that the Lord would bless him in preaching the gospel to
that nation; Brother Jones having relinquished a certain sum due him to be
applied to the benefit of the Temple.
Elder Willard Richards read a letter he received from James Arlington
Bennett, in which he relates his dreams relative to the murder of Joseph
and Hyrum. Elder Richards was instructed to write Bennett in reply, which
was done. Afternoon, with Elder Kimball and Richards I visited Mr.
Davidson Hibbard on business.
Wednesday, 21.----Council of the Twelve Apostles at my house to meet
Elder Lyman Wight. Elder John Taylor went after him with a carriage; found
him sick and unable to attend.
I spent the evening and partook of supper at Elder Woodruff's with
Elders Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, John Taylor and their wives.
Friday, 23.----The brethren of the Twelve got ready to go and dine at
Father Mikesell's; but were called to go and see Lyman Wight near the
upper stone house: he and thirty others were sick in the same house.
Saturday, 24.----Council of the Twelve Apostles, the Temple and
Nauvoo House Committees and other elders at my house, when it was voted
that I should take such measures as should seem best to gather men and
means to this place to complete the Temple. Elder Lyman Wight was
counselled to go north instead of going south.
After transacting the business presented, Elder Woodruff was blessed
and set apart to his mission to England under the hands of the members of
the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles present: Several of the Twelve Apostles
were baptized for their dead this afternoon.
DISCOURSE OF ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF Sunday, 25.----Meeting at the
stand, Elder Wilford Woodruff preached, he said:
`There is a spirit in man and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth
it understanding. It is through this principle that this congregation is
assembled together at this place; you had understanding of the things of
God by the Spirit of God, and I have now one important declaration to make
unto you, and that is, that inasmuch as you will be united in heart, mind
and action in supporting your counsellors, the authorities of the church,
the priesthood of God, and follow the counsel given you, as you have
endeavored to follow the counsel of the Prophet while he was living, you
will be safe and blessed and will prosper; but if you are divided and
reject the counsel of God you will fall: union and faithfulness is your
salvation. You have been led by one of the best men that ever graced
humanity or tabernacled in flesh; but he has gone; he has sealed his
testimony with his blood; he loved this people unto death.
I call upon this people to be united in building upon the foundation
which the Prophet Joseph has laid, You have been called to suffer much in
the cause in which you are engaged, but if judgment begins at the House of
God, Babylon will not escape; and if there is fire in a green tree, a dry
tree will not escape, and there are none more prepared for the shock that
is coming upon the earth than the Latter-day Saints. The object we have in
view is to secure blessings beyond the veil in the first resurrection,
this is what we are preparing for. Again, I would say let not the saints
be troubled because they have lost their Prophet. I would ask, because the
prophet has sealed his testimony with his blood, if that destroys the
gospel----takes away the power of God---- annihilates truth----or buries
the priesthood? I tell you, nay! it does not. His testament is now in
force; therefore my counsel is to follow the example of those who have
gone before and be faithful unto death. If you will be united and go too
with your mights in building the Temple you will have power to accomplish
it and get an endowment. I exhorted the saints to faithfulness ----and
requested their prayers, and asked their forgiveness for anything that I
might have done wrong and bade them farewell.'
I [Brigham Young] spoke a few words to the saints; told them they
were at liberty to be baptized for their dead relatives.
Elders Orson Hyde and Parley P. Pratt bore testimony that Joseph the
Prophet had ordained, anointed and appointed the Twelve to lead the church
and had given them the keys of the kingdom for that purpose.
Elder John Taylor bore testimony against those that murdered Joseph
and Hyrum Smith; he said they should be cursed and the congregation said,
Amen.
Elder William W. Phelps and Reynolds Cahoon bore testimony that
Joseph said unto the Twelve `upon you must rest the responsibility of
bearing off the kingdom of God in all the world, therefore round up your
shoulders and bear it.'
Monday, 26.----Attended council held at my house. Afternoon attended
a court martial.
Tuesday, 27.----I met with the officers of the Nauvoo Legion in
council; six of the Apostles were present. The council decided that they
would carry out all the views of our martyred Prophet: the brethren felt
very spirited on the subject.
Wednesday, 28-----Elders Wilford Woodruff Dan Jones, and Hiram Clark
with their families started this afternoon for England.
Thursday, 29.----The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles met at my house,
having notified Elders Rigdon and Marks to attend. This was fast day and I
attended meeting at the stand and laid hands on several of the sick.
Friday, 30.----In company with my brethren of the
Twelve, Father John Smith and many others I visited at Father
Mikesell's, partook of dinner and A an abundance of peaches from his
orchard: the family were glad to see us and we spent a pleasant day. Many
of the brethren in the city being apprehensive that we might fall into the
hands of the mob, took their guns and went a `hunting' around and below
Mikesell's along the timbered bluffs on the Mississippi River.
Saturday, 31.----Visiting the sick. Afternoon attended general
meeting of the officers of the Nauvoo Legion. I was unanimously elected
lieutenant-general and Charles C. Rich, major-general of the Nauvoo
Legion. Evening, attended a school meeting."
CHAPTER XXI.
FORMAL TRIAL AND EXCOMMUNICATION OF PRESIDENT
SIDNEY RIGDON---RESTLESS MOVEMENTS OF JAMES EMMETT----MISSION
ACTIVITIES OF THE CHURCH----MOVEMENTS OF STATE OFFICIALS AND THE
MOB OF HANCOCK COUNTY
"Sunday, September 1, 1844.----I [Brigham Young] went to the stand*1
in the forenoon. Elder Sidney Rigdon preached. His discourse was
complicated and somewhat confused; he said he had all things shown to him
from this time to the winding-up scene, or the great battle of Gog and
Magog; there were great things to take place, but he did not tell what the
saints should do to save themselves.
I met with the high priests' quorum in the afternoon and spoke at
some length to the brethren. Elder Heber C. Kimball addressed the meeting;
afterwards, we proceeded to the Seventies' Hall and instructed the
seventies pertaining to the organization of their quorums.
A conference was held at Philadelphia, August 31st and September 1st,
at which Elder William Smith [Apostle and brother of the Prophet]
presided. Elder Jedediah M. Grant represented three hundred and
thirty-four members, including officers and gave much good instruction
pertaining to the duties of the saints, in building a Temple and
strengthening the hands of the saints at Nauvoo. Elders Wm. Smith and
William I. Appleby preached.
Monday, 2.--Visited Elders Willard Richards and John P. Greene who
were very sick.
I wrote the following which was published in the Times and Seasons:
CONCENTRATION AT NAUVOO `The Twelve would invite the brethren abroad,
in obedience to the commandments of the Lord, to gather to Nauvoo with
their means to help build up the city, and complete the Temple, which is
now going forward faster than it has at any time since it commenced.
Beware of the speculations about the Prophet! Believe no tales on the
subject: Time will tell who are the friends of Joseph Smith, who laid down
his life for his brethren. We have no new commandments, but beseech the
brethren to honor and obey the old ones, for, wheresoever the carcass is,
there will the eagles be gathered together.'
Tuesday, 3.----I had an interview with Brother Sidney Rigdon. He said
he had power and authority above the Twelve Apostles and did not consider
himself amenable to their counsel. In the evening, the Twelve had an
interview with Brother Rigdon, who was far from feeling an interest with
the Twelve. His license was demanded, which he refused to give up, and
said the church had not been lead by the Lord for a long time, and he
should come out and expose the secrets of the church.
Wednesday, 4.----Elder Willard Richards sick. The Twelve Apostles and
a few others met at my house in the evening and prayed for the
preservation of the church and ourselves; and that the Lord might bind up
the apostates and preserve the honest in heart.
Thursday, 5.----Brother Wm, Marks came to see me in relation to
President Rigdon and his revelations. Afternoon, attended public prayer
meeting and exposed he false prophets. Evening, Elder Hyde preached in the
Masonic Hall on Elder Rigdon's conduct since his return to Nauvoo.
Friday, 6----Elder Heber C. Kimball and I visited the sick till two
p. m.
Brother Alonzo W. Whitney informed us of the proceedings of Elder
Rigdon and others.
Elder Orson Pratt preached in the Seventies' Hall,
Saturday, 7.----Accompanied by Elder Kimball I waited upon Elder John
P. Greene, and attended to ordinances for him: he was on his deathbed.
Leonard Soby was disfellowshipped by the high council for following
Elder Rigdon.
Sunday, 8.----I insert the following synopsis of minutes of Elder
Sidney Rigdon's trial:
THE FORMAL TRIAL OF ELDER SIDNEY RIGDON `Minutes of a meeting of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held on the meeting ground in
the city of Nauvoo. Present, of the Quorum of the Twelve, President
Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Orson Hyde,
George A. Smith, John Taylor and Amasa M. Lyman.
The high council was organized with Bishop Newel K. Whitney their
head.
President Young briefly addressed the congregation and introduced the
business of the day, which he said would be this: All those who are for
Joseph and Hyrum, the Book of Mormon, Book of Doctrine and Covenants, the
Temple and Joseph's measures, they being one party' will be called upon to
manifest their principles Openly and boldly, the opposite party to enjoy
the same liberty and be as decided and manifest their principles as boldly
as they do in their secret meetings and private councils. If they are for
Sidney Rigdon, and believe he is the man to be the first President and
leader of this people, they are requested to manifest it as freely as they
do in other places, because this will form another party: President Young
alluded to the course of Elder Rigdon.
Elders Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, Amasa M. Lyman, John Taylor,
William W. Phelps, Heber C. Kimball and William Marks bore testimony in
relation to the course of Elder Rigdon, which is published in full in the
fifth volume of the Times and Seasons.
Elder W. W. Phelps [after the above hearing] moved that Elder Sidney
Rigdon be cut off from the church, and delivered over to the buffetings of
satan until he repent.
Bishop Newel K. Whitney then presented the motion to the high council
[who was trying the case] and the vote was unanimous in the affirmative.
Elder Phelps then offered the same motion to the church, upon which
President Young arose and requested the congregation to place themselves
so that all could be seen who voted. He then called upon the church to
signify whether they were in favor of the motion: the vote Was neatly
unanimous.
Those who were for Sidney Rigdon were requested to make it Manifest:
there were ten who voted for him.
Elder Phelps then moved that all who have voted to follow Elder
Rigdon be suspended until they can have a trial before the , high council.
An amendment was offered as follows: `or shall hereafter be found
advocating his principles.'
The vote was unanimous in the affirmative.
President Young arose and delivered Sidney Rigdon over to the
buffetings of satan in the name of the Lord, and all the people said,
Amen.'
Sunday, 9.----I attended council with the Quorum of the Twelve at
Elder Heber C. Kimball's; thence I went in company with Elder Kimball
through the city, attending to business and visiting Elders John P. Greene
and Parley P. Pratt who were sick.
Elder Heber C. Kimball and George A. Smith labored diligently with
James Emmett that he might be persuaded to desist from his it.
tended course of taking away a party of misguided saints into the
wilderness.
Tuesday, 10.----Elder John P. Greene died.
Elder Orson Hyde started for Kirtland.
I attended council with the Twelve and others when orders to the mob
given by Colonel Levi Williams were read. General Deming [sheriff of
Hancock county] said he did not consider that a mob large enough to do any
mischief could be raised,
Afternoon, with Elder Kimball visiting the saints,
Evening, attended a meeting of officers of the Legion, when a
resolution was passed to build an arsenal and gunsmith's shop: one hundred
and thirty dollars was subscribed towards the erection of the building.
Wednesday, 11.----Elder John P. Greene buried * *
I attended council at Elder Erastus Snow's; afterwards in company
with several officers of the Legion looking out a location for the
arsenal.
Friday, 13.----I went to the parade ground where the officers were
drilling. Jonathan Dunham was elected brigadier-general of the second
cohort of the Nauvoo Legion: I addressed the officers.
In company with Brother Heber C. Kimball and his wife, Vilate, I
visited Mother [Lucy] Smith.
There are many reports concerning the movements of the mob; who are
making preparations for what they call a `wolf hunt' on the 26th and 27th
of this month; but the general apprehension is that they design coming and
attempting to drag some more authorities of the church out to Carthage to
murder them.
Saturday, 14.----In company with Elders Heber C. Kimball and George
A. Smith I called on Sister Hyrum Smith.
Elder Amasa M. Lyman being very sick and reported to be dying,
Brothers Kimball, George A. [Smith] and I retired to my upper room and
prayed for him: he was healed from that very hour.
Attended city council, Jonathan C. Wright was elected marshal and W.
W. Phelps recorder of deeds. George A. Smith was elected councilor.
At two p. m,, the second cohort of the Nauvoo Legion inspected:
Brother John Taylor and I attended.
Evening, visited Brother Amasa M. Lyman.
Sunday, 15.----Elder Parley P. Pratt preached in the forenoon and
Elder Orson Pratt in the afternoon.
Monday, 16.----At six a. m., accompanied by Elder Heber C. Kimball,
Generals C. C. Rich, Jonathan Dunham and other officers of the Legion, I
went to the ground secured for the arsenal, near the Temple. We uncovered
our heads and lifted our hands to heaven and I dedicated the ground, by
prayer, to the God of the armies of Israel. I took the spade and broke the
ground for the cellar.
Evening, I attended council; Jared Carter was present and made
confession and promised to return to the church.
Tuesday, 17.----The Legion trained. Afterwards the officers met when
George A. Smith was elected quartermaster-general of the Nauvoo Legion,
with the rank of colonel,
The following is from Elder Addison Pratt, Tubuai [sometimes written
Tooboui or Toboui] , Society Islands, of date of July 26, 1844.
LETTER OF ELDER ADDISON PRATT ROM THE SOCIETY ISLANDS `July 26th, I
baptized nine persons, four Americans, one Scotchman and four natives,
having previously baptized one. On the 29th, I organized the Tubuai branch
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, numbering eleven
members, all in good standing.
On the 5th of August, I administered the sacrament. For wine I
substituted coconut milk, that was a pure beverage, which never had come
to the open air till we broke the nut for that purpose. On the 8th I
baptized another person.
The inhabitants here have resolved to build me a house. This climate
is fine, never so cold as to freeze, though in July and August it is as
cold as it can be and not freeze. January and February are the warmest
months, though the heat is never so scorching as some days we have at
home. In summer, however, the mosquitoes are innumerable and in winter the
fleas are equally plentiful, though we have means to guard against them.
Before I came here King Tommatooah buried his wife; on the 14th July
I married him to Toupah his queen; he has been very friendly with me ever
since I came here.
Sometimes when I get to thinking about home I feel that I could leave
all and return as quickly as possible. A few evenings since I fell into a
train of thoughts and told my brethren. I went to bed, fell asleep and
dreamed I had deserted my post and got to Nauvoo; the people all knew I
had left without counsel and treated me with coolness and neglect. This
mortified my feelings so much that I never thought of my family; I saw
Brother Young, he was busily employed in sending a company of elders to
Europe; I felt an anxiety to go with them, but I had deserted one station,
and they never intended to send me to another. I then thought I would go
back to the one I had left, but I had no means to get back, or to help
myself with: I thought my shame was greater than I could bear, and with
these reflections I awoke.
I have lived at Mattaoora since I came here till the 23rd of August.
I then removed to this place called Mahoo, which is the place where I
first landed.
The second sabbath after I came here, the church [i. e. the saints]
came over to visit me, and I baptized seven more, all natives and heads of
families. I administered the sacrament and we felt that we were greatly
blessed.
It is now a year since I have heard a syllable from home, and three
months since I have heard from the brethren at Tahiti, though I have sent
word by eight vessels bound thither.
On learning that missionaries [i. e, of sectarian churches] had
arrived from Tahiti I called to see them. I had heard so much of their
iniquity and I wanted to see how they looked; to me they looked guilty
indeed. One of them named Howe very sanctimoniously remarked, `I
understand you have come among the Islands in the capacity of a preacher,'
I answered, `yes.' And what do you preach?' `The sacred truths of the
Bible,' I replied. `I suppose you are aware,' said he. `that many years
ago the London Missionary Society established a mission here at a very
great expense;' the whole stress was on the great expense, the cost of
translating the Bible, etc.
`Well,' said I, `and now you are opposed to having the Bible preached
after you have accomplished the translation?' He said, no: he had no
objections to my preaching the Bible, but he understood I had another book
I preached from. I told him that was a mistake, and went on to tell him
what it was; a long dialogue ensued in which they all questioned me on the
fundamental principles of the gospel, but they had to drop several points
they introduced for fear of trapping themselves; at length they told me
they found no fault with me as far as the Bible was concerned, but the
Book of Mormon they had read and it was a bad book. I told them to show me
some specimens of bad doctrine in it: they turned to the place where it
says, `Adam fell that Man might be,' at which they flounced considerably,
but I soon succeeded in proving that it was not contrary to Bible
doctrine; they laid they could find a worse place than that and turned to
the passage:
`Adam had to know misery before he knew happiness.' This they spouted
upon me in a great rage. I referred them to the temptations of the Savior
and his sufferings that he might be perfected.
I questioned them about their belief in the Bible, and the coming of
the Son of God the second time; contrasted this with the dispensation of
Noah, told them the world was now being warned, and the consequences that
would ensue if men did not give heed. I then raised right hand towards
heaven and called on all the heavenly hosts to witness the testimony I
bore; that I knew Brother Joseph Smith to be a good man and a Prophet of
the Lord. * * * The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me; it threw them into
confusion, they knew not what to say. They finally told me as long as I
preached the truth they would pray that I might be upheld, but if I
preached error they should pray that it might fall to the ground. Then, I
said, our prayers will be united.'
Wednesday, 18.-----I attended council with the Twelve Apostles and
Bishops Whitney and Miller, at Elder Taylor's. Several communications from
the elders abroad were read.
It was voted that the profits arising from the publication of the
Book of Mormon and Book of Doctrine and Covenants be devoted to the
priesthood for the building up of the kingdom of God.
Thursday, 19.----At home waiting upon my wife who was very sick. The
saints called upon me for counsel and direction.
Friday, 20.----Attending to ordinances in behalf of the saints, and
laying hands on the sick. The Lord is with me continually.
Saturday, 21.----I visited the saints accompanied by Elders Kimball
and Lyman. Received a letter from Elder Jedediah M. Grant relating the
slanderous course pursued by Elder B. Winchester against the Twelve, and
informing us that at the Philadelphia conference he refused to vote to
sustain the Twelve asserting that they gagged him while on his trial at
Nauvoo.
Sunday, 22,----I preached to the congregation of the saints on the
priesthood: had a good time.
High priests' quorum met at the Masonic Hall. Elder George A. Smith
preached.
Evening, attended council.
Murray McConnel, Esq., governor's agent from Morgan county arrived in
Nauvoo, and Elder John Taylor made affidavit against Thomas C. Sharp and
Levi Williams, two of the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Monday, 23.----The first capital weighing about two tons was raised
on to the walls of the Temple.
This evening, Sheriff Deming came into Nauvoo for a Mormon posse to
take Sharp and Williams. The Twelve decided that it was imprudent to take
[use] Mormons for that purpose and advised him accordingly.
Received some arms and ammunition from the brethren in St. Louis, by
the hands of Thomas McKenzie.
Tuesday, 24.----I attended a council at Winsor P. Lyons; six of the
brethren of the Twelve were present, and Elder Joseph Young; we selected
seventy presidents to preside over the seventies and fifty high priests
to preside over different sections of the country.
The Quincy Greys under Captain Morgan and a company of Germans under
Captain Swinder arrived from Quincy and encamped in the east part of the
city. These captains expected a general officer to direct their movements
and expressed their astonishment at his non-arrival.
Received a letter from David Clayton containing an account of the
sayings and doings of Lyman Wight, his opposition to the Twelve and
Clayton's reasons for leaving Wight's company.
Wednesday, 25.----Sheriff Deming asked Attempt to for wagons to take
the Quincy militia to Warsaw to arrest Sharp. The marshal furnished teams
and wagons, when the militia said they had no orders from the governor to
go.
An attempt was made under the directions of the governor's agent to
arrest Thomas C. Sharp, but failed; it was reported that Colonel Levi
Williams ran away.
Received a letter from Elder William A. Moore pertaining to the
malicious and wicked course of Ben Winchester.
Thursday, 26.----I attended a council held at my house. Benjamin
Winchester and wife were cut off from the church.
The Quincy militia escorted about town by the Nauvoo Band.
Held a council at the Temple Office appointed four watchmen to watch
the Temple tonight, some of Wight's company have come to town and they
report that they have come to deface the capitals, and burn the lumber
round the Temple.
General Charles C. Rich wrote the following:
`To His Excellency, Thomas Ford, Governor of the State of Illinois
and Commander-in-chief of the Militia. Sir: I received your letter by the
hand of Major Bills last evening after dark and hastened to lay before you
such information as is in my possession in regard to the movements at
Warsaw and Carthage. The deputy sheriff arrived here last evening and
informed us that he was at Warsaw and apprehended Thomas C. Sharp who was
rescued from his hands by the citizens of Warsaw who stated that they
would not let him be taken, law or no law, governor or no governor.
Judge Lot who also arrived here last evening from Quincy, passed
through the neighborhood of Warsaw, and informed us that the country was
in commotion, and that they had d; patched runner' in all directions to
raise a force and have it in readiness to act in defiance of all law; from
all we have learned there is not much force assembled as yet in Carthage
or Warsaw.
Everything is perfectly quiet here; we were, however, a little
surprised on the arrival of two companies of militia from Quincy, such
things being altogether unsuspected by us, having received no information
from you in regard to such movements.
I had a conference with General Miller since the receipt of your
letter, who informs me that he has as yet received no letter from you,
though he has been expecting an answer for several days, consequently were
left in the dark in regard to your instructions for our intended
movements.
Permit me sir, to introduce to your acquaintance Major John Pack and
Mr. Snow, gentlemen, in whom we repose the utmost confidence and to whom
you can communicate anything you wish concerning us.'
I received the following:
`SPECIAL ORDER NO. 10 Camp Pulasky, Sept. 26, 1844. To the Commander
of the Nauvoo Legion: General Hardin having been commanded by the governor
and commander-in-chief to take command of the Nauvoo Legion in the event
of their being called into service will review the Legion tomorrow the
27th at 1 o'clock, p. m. It is not intended as a muster of the Legion into
service but as a parade for inspection and review, By order of
Brigadier-General, [Signed] J. J. HARDIN, W. B. Warren, Brigade-Major.
Commanding Illinois Volunteers.
Friday, 27.----This was the day set apart by the anti-Mormons for the
great `wolf hunt'.
A little before noon the governor and two of his aids arrived in
Nauvoo. After viewing the Temple they went down towards the Mansion. About
two p. m. his troops marched into the city, about five hundred in number.
They had three six-pounders with them, two of which were brass. The whole
company. halted on the first vacant block on the flat and tarried there
some time. Many of the men visited the font and the Temple; they appeared
astonished, but were civil.
I received my commission as lieutenant-general, and Charles C. Rich
his as major-general.
Governor Ford said he had come to execute the law and was ready to
proceed against the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith as fast as the
people get out writs. He issued a Proclamation offering a reward of two
hundred dollars each for the arrest of Sharp, Jackson and Williams, and
announced his intention of taking all the arms from this part of the
state. His troops numbered four hundred and seventy, all that would
volunteer in nine counties to help maintain the supremacy of the laws in
Hancock and bring murderers to justice.
Saturday, 28.----I sent the following:
PRESIDENT YOUNG'S LETTER TO GOVERNOR FORD `Headquarters, Nauvoo
Legion, Sept. 28, 1844. His Excellency, Thomas Ford, Governor and
Commander-in-Chief: Sir: The review of the Nauvoo Legion will take place
this day at twelve m., at which time the commander-in-chief, with his
staff, is respectfully solicited to accept an escort from the Legion and
be present at the review. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, Lieutenant-General,
Nauvoo Legion. By E. H. Derby, Secretary.'
I reviewed the Legion. The governor, General J. J. Hardin and staff
were present. Appropriate salutes were fired on the occasion.
The Legion made a creditable and soldier-like appearance. Several of
the staff officers of the Legion appeared in uniform without arms, which
the governor regarded as a hint to remind him of his disarming the Legion
previous to the massacre of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Four p. m., the governor marched his militia force about three miles
down the river and camped in the woods.
The governor called upon General George Miller to furnish boats to
convey his command in the night to Warsaw, who after making the necessary
arrangements, accompanied by Cyrus H. Wheelock, two other brethren and one
of the governor's officers, started to inform his Excellency that the
boats were ready. On reaching the neighborhood of the camp the officer
requested the brethren to wait until he would go in and speak to the
governor; after waiting a few minutes the brethren attempted to go in and
see the governor for themselves but were prevented by a sentinel who
cocked his gun. Soon after three rounds of musketry were discharged by a
detachment of the governor's troops, the bullets whistled all around
Brother Miller and party, one ball taking effect upon the sentinel who
cried out very loudly, `I am a dead man': the officers subsequently
remarked that they had forgotten to call in their sentinel. Brother Miller
and party rendered the wounded sentinel all the assistance they could
until his comrades from the camp came to his relief, when Brother Miller
learned the boats were not wanted; whereupon, accompanied by his party he
started back for Nauvoo, when they got a few rods off twenty or thirty
guns were fired after them; some of the balls skimmed the road near their
feet; but they were preserved by the hand of God."
CHAPTER XXII.
EPISTLE OF THE TWELVE TO THE CHURCH----MORAL AND SPIRITUAL
GUIDANCE
`Sunday, September 29, 1844.----I [Brigham Young] attended meeting.
Elder Parley P. Pratt preached on the duties of saints and advised all the
drunkards and thieves to either quit their wickedness or leave the city,
and not claim the name of Mormons, he exhorted the saints in the spirit of
meekness to cherish the fruits of the Spirit and walk uprightly before
God, and deal justly with all men and to shew by their walk and conduct
that they had not taken upon them the name of Christ in vain, giving their
enemies no occasion to say or print anything against them that was evil.
I made a few remarks endorsing the sisters' penny subscription for
the purpose of procuring glass and nails for the Temple and requested the
saints to prepare themselves to entertain the elders who may be in
attendance at conference,
Afternoon, I went to the Seventies' Hall and ordained the sixty-three
members of the First Quorum of the Seventy to be presidents over the
quorums from the second to the tenth inclusive.
The high priests' quorum met.
Considerable sickness reported throughout the city and many deaths.
Monday, 30.----I breakfasted at Elder Heber C. Kimball's. We laid
hands on the sick and visited Mother Smith,
Evening, went to the military school held at the Masonic Hall.
Afterwards attended council with the
Twelve and concluded to use our influence to prevent the brethren and
sisters from attending the ball which William Marks, landlord of the
Nauvoo Mansion was making arrangements for; the same to come off on
Wednesday evening in the dining room of the Mansion, which was still
stained with the blood which flowed from Joseph and Hyrum, as their bodies
lay in said room preparatory to burial,
Tuesday, October 1.----Evening, attended a meeting of the quorum for
prayer: a very interesting session.
AN EPISTLE OF THE TWELVE, `To the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints---Greeting: Dear Brethren: Having promised in our former
epistles to address you from time to time, we now proceed to give you
further information relative to the welfare of the church both temporally
and spiritually; the building up of Nauvoo; the gathering of the saints;
the building of the Temple; the establishment of manufacturing and various
branches of industry; the support of the poor, and the preserving of
peace, good order, union, love, and truth: to the suppression of vice, and
every kind of disorder, evil, and immorality.
The Temple, as a great and glorious public work, immediately
connected with the completion of our preparation, and ordinances, touching
our salvation and exaltation, and that of our dead, necessarily claims our
first, and most strict attention. And we rejoice to say for the
encouragement of all, that its walls are now ready to receive the
capitals, and the arches of the upper story windows; and in fact, seven of
the capitals are already reared. The timbers are also being framed, and
reared on the inside. In short it is progressing with a rapidity which is
truly astonishing,
The gathering, next claims our attention as a work of salvation, to
be accomplished in wisdom and prudence. Your Prophets and Apostles, have
often told you, that the saints cannot gather together in large numbers,
and be able to enjoy the comforts and necessaries of life, without the
necessary calculations and preparations for their employment and support.
Not only must farms be cultivated, houses built, and mills to grind the
corn, but there must be something produced by industry, to send off to
market in exchange for cash, and for such other articles as we need. This
must be produced, not by singing, or praying, or going to meeting, or
visiting, or friendly greetings, or conversation, But, by the united
industry, skill, and economy of the whole people. Men, women, and children
must be well, and constantly employed, In order the more effectually to do
this, we must turn our attention to the erection of workshops for the
manufacture of every useful article; and wares thus manufactured must find
a market, not in Nauvoo alone but in all the wide country, and in cities
and towns abroad.
If the saints will commence and follow out this plan, and lay out
their cash for the raw material, and employ their friends and themselves
at home, instead of sending away all our cash for manufactured goods, we
can soon produce millions of wealth, and the poor will have no cause of
complaint; for among a temperate people thus employed there would soon be
no poor except the widow, the orphan, or the infirm, and these could he
abundantly provided for.
The fact is, we have a country abundantly supplied with natural
resources, and calculated for the production of wool, flax, hemp, cotton,
and many other articles; and we have water power to any amount and after
all our troubles a prospect of peace and protection; in short everything
for the encouragement of capitalists and workmen. Come on then, all ye
ends of the earth, take hold together, and with a long, strong, steady and
united exertion, let us build up a stronghold of industry and wealth,
which will stand firm and unshaken amid the wreck of empires and the crash
of thrones.
In regard to principle and doctrine, we know that we are founded upon
the plain and manifest truth as revealed from on high; and which is
sufficiently manifest and plain to convince all honest men who look into
it, and to confound all who oppose. The main object then which remains to
be carried out is to practice accordingly, and to live according to our
knowledge.
Let the saints now send in their young men who are strong to labor,
together with money, provisions, clothing, tools, teams, and every
necessary means, such as they know they will want when they arrive, for
the purpose of forwarding this work.
Brethren, bring all your tithings into the storehouse and prove the
Lord, and see if he will not pour out a blessing, that there will not be
room enough to receive.
Yes, brethren, we verily know and bear testimony, that a cloud of
blessing and of endowment, and of the keys of the fullness of the
priesthood, and of things pertaining to eternal life, is hanging over us,
and ready to burst upon us or upon as many as live worthy of it, so soon
as there is a place found on earth to receive it. Therefore, let no
cunningly devised fable, no false delusive spirit, or vision, no man or
set of men who go out from us, but are not of us, have any influence on
your minds for a moment, to draw your minds away from this all important
work. But enter steadily and regularly upon a strict observance of the law
of tithing, and of freewill offerings, till Jehovah shall say it is
enough; your offerings are accepted: then come up to the House of the
Lord, and be taught in his ways, and walk in his paths; yea, enter his
sanctuary; and receive the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of
praise for the spirit of heaviness.
In order to do this we must not only be industrious and honest, in
providing abundantly for our temporal wants, and for those for whom duty
and charity bind us to act, but we must abstain from all intemperance,
immorality and vice of whatever name or nature; we must set an example of
virtue, modesty, temperance, continence, cleanliness, and charity. And be
careful not to mingle in the vain amusements and sins of the world.
In nearly all cities or towns of an extensive population there are
certain vices, or crimes, not exactly tolerated by law, but yet, borne
with by the people as a kind of unavoidable or necessary evil; such, for
instance, as gambling, drunkenness, vain and wicked amusements and
allurements, directly calculated to corrupt the morals of the people and
lead them from the paths of virtue and truth. Among the most conspicuous
and fashionable of these we might mention, balls, dances, corrupt and
immodest theatrical exhibitions, magical performances, etc., all of which
are apt not only to have an evil tendency in themselves, but to mingle the
virtuous and the vicious in each others society; not for the improvement
of the vicious but rather to corrupt the virtuous.
Nauvoo is now becoming one of the largest towns of the west, and as
it was founded, and is still in a great measure managed by the saints, we
greatly desire the united influence of all well- wishers to our society,
and to good order and morality, to cooperate with us in preserving the
general peace and quiet, and in suppressing these and all other vices and
evils.
Or, to be plain on the subject, we wish to suppress all grogshops,
gambling houses, and all other disorderly houses or proceedings in our
city, and to tolerate no intemperance or vice in our midst. And so far at
least as the members of the church are condemned, we would advise that
balls, dances, and other vain and useless amusements be neither
countenanced nor patronized; they have been borne with, in some instances
heretofore for the sake of peace and good will. But it is not flow a time
for dancing or frolics but a time of mourning, and of humiliation and
prayer.
If the people were all righteous, it would do to dance, and to have
music, feasting and merriment. But what fellowship has Christ with Belial?
Or what fellowship has light with darkness? or what union have the sons
and daughters of God with the children of this world. who fear not God nor
regard man. All amusement in which saints and sinners are mingled tends to
corruption, and has a baneful influence in religious society.
There are amusements which are at once both innocent, instructive,
and entertaining; and which the saints can enjoy, in honor to themselves,
and without mingling with the world. Such for instance, as musical
concerts, philosophical and astronomical exhibitions, etc, These, together
with our religious devotions, and the increase of light, knowledge and
intelligence which flows like a flood of glory from the upper world, are
quite sufficient to exercise all our powers of enjoyment.
As the business of the conference is now fast crowding upon our time,
we must cut short this communication by informing you that an organization
and arrangement is now in progress, by which high priests and presiding
officers will be appointed over each district of country, throughout the
union, who will have entire charge, under the direction of the Twelve of
all spiritual matters, superintending the labors of the elders and the
calling of conferences. Arrangements will also be made, for the proper
payment and reception of tithing, so that it may be duly received by
responsible agents and recorded. Of these particulars you will receive
further communication from us soon. Done in council at Nauvoo, this first
day of October, A. D. 1844. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, President.'
Wednesday, 2.----At ten a. m., a council of the Twelve met at Elder
Kimball's.
Elder A. W. Babbitt read a letter from Oliver Cowdery.
Governor Ford disbanded his troops. Sharp and Williams have given
themselves up and gone to Quincy under a contract with the governor.
Friday, 4.----I went up to the Temple in the forenoon. Attended
council with the Twelve, the bishops and the Temple Committee at Sister
Emma Smith's and expressed our feelings and intentions to her.
Elder Woodruff preached through the eastern states while traveling on
his mission to England. He had an interesting time among his relatives at
his father's house in Farmington, Connecticut, and this evening ordained
his Uncle, Ozem Woodruff, a high priest."
CHAPTER XXIII.
MINUTES OF THE IMPORTANT CONFERENCE OF OCTOBER 6TH TO 8TH,
1844----THE CHURCH SET IN ORDER ----DUTIES OF THE PRIESTHOOD
EXPOUNDED----ECONOMICS CONSIDERED
"Sunday, October 6, 1844.----From the Times and Seasons (p. 682).
OCTOBER CONFERENCE MINUTES `City of Nauvoo, Oct. 6, 1844. Thousands
having arrived on the ground by ten o'clock a. m. Elder Parley P. Pratt
called the people to order. Singing by the choir----prayer by Elder
Phelps. Some instructions were given by Elder Pratt, when President
Brigham Young having arrived, arose to lay before the brethren the matters
to be attended to during the conference.
THE DISCOURSE OF PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG `This day' [he said], `will
be devoted to preaching and instruction, and we will attend to business
tomorrow. If the Twelve could have had their desires when they returned
home, they would have set their houses in order, and devoted themselves to
fasting and prayer. It has not been the Twelve who desired to have
business which pertains to this conference transacted previous, it was
others who urged it on. Some elders who have known the organization of the
church from the beginning, have faltered and become darkened. We feel to
give the necessary instruction pertaining to the church, and how it has
been led, etc. It is necessary that the saints should also be instructed
relative to building the Temple, and spreading the principles of truth
from sea to sea, and from land to land until it shall have been preached
to all nations, and then according to the testimony of the ancients, the
end will come. When the Lord commences to work upon the earth he always
does it by revealing his will to some man on the earth, and he to others,
The church is built up by revelation, given from day to day according to
the requirements of the people. The Lord will not cease to give
revelations to the people, unless, the people trample on his laws and
forsake and reject him. I request that the Latter-day Saints may pray that
we may have the outpouring of the Spirit that we may hear, and I wish them
to pray for me that I may have Strength, and that I may make every
principle I speak upon so perfectly plain, that we may all understand as
quick as when we talk together upon our daily matters.
`This church has been led by revelation, and unless We forsake the
Lord entirely, so that the priesthood is taken from us, it will be led by
revelation all the time. The question arises with some who has the right
to revelation? I will not ascend any higher than a priest, and ask the
priest what is your right? You have the right to receive the
administration of angels. If an angel was to come to you and tell you what
the Lord was going to do in this day, You would say you had a revelation.
The president of the priests has a right to the Urim and Thummim, which
gives revelation. He has the right of receiving visits from angels. Every
priest then in the church has the right of receiving revelations. Every
member has the right of receiving revelations for themselves, both male
and female. It is the very life of the church of the living God, in all
ages of the world. The Spirit of Truth is sent forth into all the world to
reprove the world of sin and unrighteousness, and of a judgment to come.
If we were here today and had never heard this gospel, and a man was to
come bounding into our midst, saying, he had come to preach the gospel, to
tell us that God was about to restore the priesthood, and save the people,
etc., it would be your privilege, and my privilege to ask God in the name
of Jesus Christ, as individuals, concerning this thing, whether it was of
God, and get a testimony from God that it was true, and this would be
revelation. Let us take some of these old fathers for an example, they
have heard the gospel, they have been baptized, etc., had hands laid on
them for the gift of the Holy Ghost----he has got a family of children, he
has been led all his days by his own spirit, but now begins to come to
understand he has the right to bow before the Lord and receive instruction
from God, from day to day, how to manage his family, hiS farm, his
merchandise, and to govern all the affairs of his house. I will take some
of my younger brethren who have received the gospel, they have been
ordained an elder to hold the keys, etc. What is your privilege? It is
your privilege to go and preach the gospel to the world, and to go by the
power of the Holy Ghost, and you have no right to go without it. You have
been ordained to go forth and build up the kingdom to a certain extent. No
man ever preached a gospel discourse, nor ever will, unless he does it by
revelation. You will do it by the Holy Ghost, or when you tell the history
of the gospel, the gospel will not be there, has got to be done by
revelation or the gospel you have not got, and when you preach, the people
will still be left without the gospel. There never was a prophet on the
earth that dictated to the people, but he dictated their temporal affairs
as well as spiritual, It is the right of an individual to get revelations
to guide himself. It is the right of the head of a family to Bet
revelations to guide and govern his family. It is the right of an elder
when he has built up a church to get revelations to guide and lead that
people until he leads them and delivers them up to his superiors. An elder
will always be a little in advance of those whom he has raised up if he is
faithful.'
He [President Young] next showed how the saints are delivered up in
their progress frog those who give them up to the high council, and from
the high council to the prophet, and from the prophet to the son, the
elder brother, and from the son to his father. (Then continued)----
`Are the keys of the kingdom taken from Joseph? Oh no; well then he
still lives. He that believes in Jesus as Joseph did, they will never die
They may lay down their lives, but they still hold the keys. You are not
going to be led without revelation. The Prophet has stepped behind the
veil and you have the right to obtain revelations for your own salvation.
Who stood next to the Prophet when he was here. You have all acknowledged
that the Twelve were the Presidents of the whole church when Joseph was
not; and now he has stepped behind the veil, he is not here, and the
Twelve are the Presidents of the whole church. When did Joseph become a
Prophet? I can tell you, when he became an Apostle. Years and years
before he had the right of holding the keys of the Aaronic priesthood, he
was a Prophet, even before he was baptized. There has been a perfect flood
of revelation poured from this stand all the time and You did not know it,
Every spirit that confesses that Joseph Smith is a Prophet, that he lived
and died a Prophet and that the Book of Mormon is true, is of God, and
every spirit that does not is of anti-Christ.
`It is the test of our fellowship to believe and confess that Joseph
lived and died a Prophet of God in good standing; and I don't want anyone
to fellowship the Twelve who says that Joseph is fallen. If you don't know
whose right it is to give revelations, I will tell you, It is I, There
never has a man stood between Joseph and the Twelve, and unless we
apostatize there never will. If Hyrum had lived he would not have stood
between Joseph and the Twelve, but he would have stood for Joseph.----Did
Joseph ordain any man to take his place? He did. Who was it? It was Hyrum,
but, Hyrum fell a martyr before Joseph did. If Hyrum had lived he would
have acted for Joseph, and then when we had gone up, the Twelve would have
sat down at Joseph's right hand, and Hyrum on the left hand. The Bible
says God hath set in the church, first Apostles, then comes Prophets,
afterwards, because the keys and power of the Apostleship are greater than
that of the Prophets. Sidney Rigdon cannot hold the keys without Joseph,
if he had held the keys with Joseph and been faithful he would have been
with us. If the Twelve do not apostatize they carry the keys of this
kingdom wherever they go.'
He [President Young] concluded by requesting all the brethren to
tarry with us until all the business is through.
The meeting adjourned by blessing from Elder Heber C. Kimball, until
2 o'clock.
ELDER JOHN TAYLOR'S DISCOURSE Two o'clock p. m.----The meeting was
opened as usual by singing; and prayer by Elder W. W. Phelps. After which
Elder John Taylor arose and addressed the people. He said it was with
peculiar feelings that he arose to address the congregation.
`This is the first general conference' [he said], `that has been
held, where your beloved Prophet and Patriarch are not present. When I
look at the many difficulties and severe trials we have passed through it
fills me with peculiar feelings. I feel happy to see that the people still
seem determined to hold on to those principles which have been given to us
through revelation, Nothing shall separate us from those principles which
we have imbibed, neither life nor death. By the voice of Jehovah we have
been sustained and will be sustained so long as we put our trust in him.
We have not followed `cunningly devised fables', but those principles
which have come from God. So long as we are sustained and upheld by the
arm of Jehovah, we shall stand; Mobs may rage, and the rulers may imagine
vain things; but God has said, touch not mine anointed and do my people no
harm; and if harm does befall them, woe to that man by whom it comes. If
our Prophets have been taken, they are gone to plead our cause before the
Father. And if we are deprived of their persons, presence and counsel,
that is no reason why we should be deprived of the counsel of God to
direct us in all our movements whilst pressing on our journey here below.
We are in possession of the same principles, the same priesthood, the same
medium of communication and intelligence, and of those things which will
not only secure our happiness here, but hereafter. When we speak of these
matters, we speak of things which we know assuredly, and although our
Prophet and Patriarch are taken, all things pertaining to our salvation
Will roll on and progress with as great rapidity, and can be as
effectually secured and accomplished as if they (Joseph and Hyrum) were
here themselves. God has secured to us those things in relation to our
salvation which haVe been in his bosom since the world began. He has in
his proVidence seen fit to call our brethren to himself; but he has left
others to take their places, who can teach us principles and lead us to
those things whereby we may ultimately be clothed with glory, honor,
immortality, and eternal life. If we had built upon a false foundation we
might have made a mistake in relation to our gathering together to be
instructed; but we had not; our present revelations agree with the past.
The prophets said that the people would gather together, `those who had
made a covenant with God by sacrifice', and the word and purpose of God
must stand unchanged, they do not rest upon any mere casualty. Did the
Prophet ever tell us that if a certain man should happen to die we should
scatter abroad? No! no such thing ever emanated from the lips of God. We
assembled together to fulfill the revelations of the Great Jehovah, to
bring about the dispensation of the fullness of times, to build up a Zion
to the Most High; that he might be glorified, We assembled here to bring
about great events, to fulfill the things spoken of by the prophets and
secure to ourselves an inheritance in the everlasting kingdom of God.
Shall we then be led about by the foolish notions of any man? No~ we will
not, but we will accomplish those things which are commanded us. We will
not be diverted from our course, though earth and hell oppose. Shall we
fear the puny arm of man, or the prating of a wretched mobocrat? No! What
have we to fear? We have nothing but God to fear.
`It is true we have not much to live for, and if we have no hope
beyond the grave we should be of all men most miserable. We are oppressed,
and slandered and persecuted all the day long, all that I care for is to
do the will of God, and secure to myself all those blessings which the
gospel will warrant me. I have been brought to the gates of death, but I
don't fear it; I care nothing about it, You feel as I do in relation to
these matters, for your conduct has proven it during the late
difficulties. I know that the majority of the people are endeavoring to
serve God with all their hearts, and are they not prepared 10 die? There
is nothing in death we have to fear; it is not half as much to die as it
is to be persecuted all the day long. Our great object then is to
accomplish the thing that we set out for. When we gathered together we
expected to meet tribulation; the elders that preached to you told you
this or else they did not do their duty. We have been told there would be
earthquakes in divers places, and pestilence, and war, and persecution,
and distress, and famine. Do these things move us? If the bud is so bitter
I wonder what the fruit will be. Don't you expect to be worse off than you
are now. John saw an innumerable company and wanted to know where . they
came from; it was told to him that they are they which came out of great
tribulation. That is the path we have to tread. The scripture says: `woe
unto you when all men shall speak well of you'; but that curse has never
come upon us, for there are some few here and there who will not speak
well of us. But "blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute
you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely for Christ's sake.' Do
you think there is any more evil that they have not said? If there is, let
it come. What is it that makes you to be evil spoken of? you used to have
a good name and reputation where you resided; what is the reason you are
now so much spoken against? You have dared to believe the gospel; you have
dared to obey it; and that is the reason why the world hates you. I know
there is not a better set of men than these by which I am surrounded; I
know there is not a more virtuous set of people on the earth, and yet all
manner of evil is spoken of you. Shall we cry and go mourning all day
long? No, we will rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is our reward
in heaven. I feel to rejoice; we have cause to rejoice for all manner of
evil is spoken against us falsely, and I will say hallelujah, for the Lord
God Omnipotent reigneth. What did we know of God, of religion, of heaven
or hell, until it was made known to us through this gospel? We knew
nothing. Why are we taking so much pains to build that Temple? That we may
fulfill certain ordinances, and receive certain endowments and secure to
ourselves an inheritance in the eternal world. Every man, woman and child
Within the sound of my voice, are interested in the building of that
Temple. We know very little as a people yet, we don't know so much as the
former day saints. The Savior said to his disciples, `whither I go ye
know, and the way ye know'; but how many of you know the locality of the
Savior and the way to go to him? I know there are some here who know how
to save themselves and their families, and it is this which occupies their
attention all the day long, and it was this which occupied the attention
of our beloved Prophet. Abraham obtained promises through the gospel, from
God, for himself and his posterity, There were some upon this continent
who also obtained promises, in consequence of which the Book of Mormon
came forth. The first thing we have got to do is to build the Temple,
where we can receive those blessings which we so much desire. Never mind
mobocrats, but let us do what God has commanded us. You that are living at
a distance, don't fear these cursed scoundrels; we are all in the hands of
God; we are all the servants of God; and we are going forth to do the
things of God.'
He [Elder Taylor] exhorted the saints to be virtuous, humble and
faithful, and concluded by blessing the saints,
He said further, in relation to the baptisms for the dead, that it
would be better for the saints to go on and build the Temple before we
urge our baptisms too much. There are cases which require being attended
to, and there are provisions made for them; but as a general thing he
would advise them not to be in too great a hurry. He said one of the
clerks had asked whether any should be baptized who had not paid their
tithing; it is our duty to pay our tithing, one-tenth of all we possess,
and then one-tenth of our increase, and a man who has not paid his tithing
is unfit to be baptized for his dead. It is as easy for a man who has ten
thousand dollars to pay one thousand, as it is for a man who has but a
little to pay one-tenth. It is our duty to pay our tithing. If a man has
not faith enough to attend to these little things, he has not faith enough
to save himself and his friends. It is a man's duty to attend to these
things. The poor are not going to be deprived of these blessings because
they are poor; no, God never reaps where he has not sown. This command is
harder for the rich than the poor; a man who has one million dollars, if
he should give one hundred thousand, he would think he was beggared
forever. The Savior said, how hardly do they that have riches enter the
kingdom of heaven.
BISHOP MILLER'S REMARKS Bishop Miller arose to say that on yesterday
the bishops had to go in debt to get some wood to save Some poor from
suffering; and they wanted to take up a collection to pay the amount; he
was opposed to taking up a collection in the congregation, but necessity
required it on this occasion.
After the collection was taken up the conference adjourned until
tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock.
Monday, October 7th, 1844, 10 o'clock, a. m.-- Conference met
pursuant to adjournment, and opened by singing, and prayer by Elder Parley
P. Pratt, after which President Young arose to exhort the saints to keep
their minds on the business before them, and not to be in a hurry to get
away.
SUSTAINING OF THE SEVERAL AUTHORITIES OF THE CHURCH The first
business that we shall attend to will be to present the several quorums
before the conference, for the purpose of taking an expression of the
brethren and sisters, whether they will sustain the officers according to
their several appointments.
I shall therefore give way, and I am to hear motions and present them
to the conference for their action: wherefore,
It was moved by Elder Heber C. Kimball, that we as a church endeavor
to carry out the principles and measures heretofore adopted and laid down
by Joseph Smith as far as in us lies, praying Almighty God to help us to
do it. This motion was put to the conference by President Young and
carried unanimously.
President Young said by way of explanation that this is as much as to
say that we receive and acknowledge Joseph Smith as a Prophet of God;
being called of God and maintaining his integrity and acceptance until
death.
Elder Heber C. Kimball then moved that we carry out all the measures
of Hyrum Smith, a Prophet and Patriarch in the church, so far as in us
lies [the power], by the help of God.
This motion was also carried unanimously.
President Young said, this is an acknowledgment that he lived
approved of God and died a martyr for the truth.
Elder W. W. Phelps moved that we uphold Brigham Young the president
of the Quorum of the Twelve, as one of the Twelve and the First Presidency
of the Church.
This motion was duly seconded, and put to the church by Elder John
Smith (Uncle of the Prophet) and carried unanimously.
Moved by President John Smith and seconded, that we receive Elder
Heber C. Kimball as one of the Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by
the church. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder Orson Hyde as one of the
Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder Parley P. Pratt as one of
the Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder William Smith as one of the
Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder Orson Pratt as one of the
Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder John E. Page as one of the
Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder Willard Richards as one of
the Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously,
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder Wilford Woodruff as one of
the Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that we receive Elder John Taylor as one of the
Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded that we receive Elder George A. Smith as one of
the Twelve, and that he be sustained as such by the church. Carried
unanimously.
Moved by Elder H. C. Kimball, that Elder Amasa Lyman stand in his
lot. The motion was seconded.
President Young said by way of explanation that Elder Amasa Lyman is
one of the Twelve, just in the same relationship as he sustained to the
First Presidency. He is one in our Midst and a counselor with us.
The motion was then presented and carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, and after some discussion, carried unanimously
that Elder Lyman Wight be sustained in his office to fill the place of
Elder David W. Patten [Martyred at Crooked River Battle, Missouri] , but
not to take his crown, for that, as the Lord has said, no man can take.
Elder Snow moved that George Miller be received as president of the
high priests' quorum. Carried unanimously.
President John Smith moved that William Marks be sustained in his
calling as president of this [Nauvoo] stake.
Elder W. W. Phelps objected inasmuch as the high council had dropped
him from their quorum.
Elder S. Bent explained and said the reason why the high council
dropped Elder Marks, was because he did not acknowledge the authority of
the Twelve, but the authority of Elder Rigdon.
President Young said that a president of a stake could be dropped
without taking his standing from him in the church, But not so with the
First Presidency or the Twelve. A president of a stake is only called for
the time being, if you drop him he will fall back into the high priests'
quorum.
The motion was then put, but there were only two votes. The contrary
vote was put and carried by an overwhelming majority.
Elder H. C. Kimball moved that Elder John Smith stand as the
president of this stake. Carried unanimously.
President Young then said, the Macedonia church must select their own
man for a president, as Elder John Smith is coming here.
President John Smith moved that Elder Charles C. Rich be one of his
council. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that S. Bent, James Allred, Dunbar Wilson, George
W. Harris, Wm. Huntington, Sen., Newel Knight, Alpheus Cutler, Aaron
Johnson Henry G. Sherwood, Thomas Grover, Ezra T. Benson, and David
Fullmer, be sustained as the high council. Carried unanimously.
Elder H. C. Kimball moved that Elder Joseph Young stand as First
President over all the quorums of the seventies. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Levi W. Hancock be sustained as one of the
Presidents of Seventies. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Daniel S. Miles be Sustained as one of the
Presidents of Seventies. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Zerah Pulsipher, be sustained as one of the
Presidents of Seventies. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Josiah Butterfield be cut of from the
church. Carried unanimously.
President Young showed that it was because he had got a little money,
and was lifted up.
Moved and seconded, that Henry Harriman be sustained as one of the
Presidents of Seventies. Carried unanimously.
President Young said, that the Seventies [First Council] had dropped
James Foster, and cut him off, and we need not take an action upon his
case.
Moved and seconded, that Jedediah M. Grant take the place of J.
Butterfield in the Quorum of Seventies. Carried unanimously.
Elder H, C. Kimball moved that N. K. Whitney stand as our first
bishop in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that George Miller stand as second bishop.
Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Samuel Williams retain his office as
president of [in] the elders' quorum. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Jesse Baker and Joshua Smith be sustained as
his counselors. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Stephen M. Farnsworth retain his office as
president of the priests, Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that E. Averett retain his standing as president
of the teachers. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded, that Jonathan H. Hale, Isaac Higbee, John
Murdock, David Evans, Hezekiah Peck, Daniel Garns, Jacob Foutz, Tarlton
Lewis, and Israel Calkins, be sustained as bishops in their several wards.
Carried unanimously,
ELDER PARLEY P. PRATT'S DISCOURSE President Young being fatigued gave
place for Elder Parley P. Pratt, who got up to preach his `old sermon',
[not said in derision] viz.: that we continue our united and ceaseless
exertions to build this Temple. He referred to the discoveries of Elders
Rigdon and Samuel James, They said nothing about building the Temple, the
city, feeding the poor, etc. We heard a great deal about the Mount of
Olives----Brook Kedron----Queen Victoria----great battles, etc. This
brought to my mince a good text in Webster's spelling book, "The Country
Maid and the Milk Pail'. He then went on to show the importance of
building the Temple. He bore testimony that the people had hearkened to
the voice of the Lord and to his commandments, and that they were still
hearkening, and consequently we should be sustained here until we shall
complete the Temple and receive our endowments. He showed the consequences
if we did not build it, `that we should be rejected as a people with our
dead.' When the elders go abroad to teach the people, let them teach what
we have to do, and what is depending on us and not spend their time in
quoting multitudes of scripture to prove one point. We want to build up
Nauvoo, never mind Gog and Magog, the Brook Kedron, etc., never mind the
old countries; God has something to do there by and by, but not just now.
He recommended the brethren to make improvements and enlarge themselves
without fear, for we shall not be moved till God suffers it, We are the
only people who do not fear death, we have no need to fear it. He next
said he would give the people a little religious advice. He advised those
who had means to go to getting sheep to consume the vegetation and raise
wool, by which means our women Would be well employed in manufacturing the
wool. He said in a proper time we will have gold and silver, and food and
clothing, and palaces in abundance, we will create it by our labor.
President Young advised the saints to come after intermission
prepared to tarry till evening if necessary. They [the authorities] have
much instruction to give and want an opportunity to give it. He advised
the saints to call and get Orson Pratt's Mormon Almanac which is something
new. After some few exhortations he closed the meeting till 2 o'clock by
blessing.
Two o'clock p. m.----Meeting opened by singing, and Prayer by Elder
John Taylor, after which Elder Taylor Presented a communication from Mr.
Small declaring his full faith in Elder Rigdon's doctrine. Moved and
seconded, that he be cut off from the church. Carried unanimously.
ELDER HEBER C, KIMBALL'S DISCOURSE Elder Heber C. Kimball addressed
the congregation on the principles of salvation by the celestial law. He
went on to show the order of the resurrection and that there are different
orders of degrees, wherever death finds us the resurrection will take hold
of us. `We desire to obtain a fullness of celestial glory, but many will
be disappointed. It is for this that we pray every day that the Lord will
spare our lives that we may obtain it. President Joseph Smith never rested
till he had endowed the Twelve with all the power of the priesthood,
because he was about to pass within the veil. He designed that we should
give it to you and you cannot be saved without it. You cannot obtain these
things until that house [The Temple] is built. I and my brethren are
willing to do all that lays in our power to finish that house for your
benefit, that you may go where Joseph is gone. We have got to carry out
Joseph's measures and you have got to assist us. When Jesus was upon the
earth his time was spent in endowing the Twelve Apostles that they might
do the things he had left undone and carry out his measures, and upon the
same principle we carry out joseph's measures, We have no rest----don't
sleep half as much as you do. We need your prayers.
`It is necessary to put away all wickedness from our midst, all
grogshops and bad houses. Drunkenness and such things will be our
overthrow if we are ever overthrown. The best way to put these things away
is to never frequent such places. It is necessary for us to put away all
this frolicking and dancing over the blood of the Prophet, where it was
drenched by the blood from the coffin. When the Prophet had a dance at
his house he said everything against it he could, and now men go and
practice the same things. Shall we put these things away? I say yes. We
have got an ungodly race here among us who are leading our young people
away. They will open their doors and let men go in and say everything
against the Twelve and the church they are capable of. I never frequent
such places; I cast them far from me. Are you not under the same
obligations and responsibility, ye elders, high priests, teachers, deacons
and members?'
He then went on to show that the saints could not obtain the
blessings they want until the Temple is finished. We want all to pay their
tithing that they may receive the blessings.
PRESIDENT YOUNG PRESENTS A PATRIARCH President Young arose and said
that it had been moved and seconded that Asael Smith should be ordained
to the office of patriarch. He went on to show that the right to the
office of Patriarch to the whole church belonged to William Smith as a
legal right by descent. Uncle Asael [however] ought to receive the office
of [a] patriarch in the church.
The motion was put and carried unanimously.
President Young wanted to say a few words on the principle of
tithing. `There has been so much inquiry it becomes irksome: the law is
for a man to pay one-tenth of all he possesses for the erecting of the
House of God, the spread of the gospel, and the support of the priesthood.
When man comes into the church he wants to know if he must reckon his
clothing, bad debts, lands, etc. It is the law to give one-tenth of what
he has got, and then one-tenth of his increase or one-tenth of his time, A
man comes and says he was sick six months and what is required of me? Why
go and pay your tithing for the time you are able to work. Some say they
have been preaching and want to know if that doesn't pay their tithing?
Well, it will if you want to have it so.' He then went on to recommend the
brethren not to sell their grain but to bring it into the city and store
it, and not take it to Warsaw.
He next referred to Lyman Wight's going away because he was a coward,
but he will come back and his company, and James Emmett and his company
will come back, How easy would it be for the Lord if an army of mobs was
to come within one mile of this place, to turn the northwest winds upon
them and with snow, hail and rain, make them so that they would be glad to
take care of themselves and leave us alone. He then referred to the
Missourians when Joseph and others went to jail, snapping their guns at
the brethren but they would not go off, etc. The Lord never let a prophet
fall on the earth until he had accomplished his work: and the Lord did not
take Joseph until he had finished his work, and it is the greatest
blessing to Joseph and Hyrum God could bestow to take them away, for they
had suffered enough. They are not the only martyrs that will have to die
for the truth. There are men before me today who will be martyrs, and who
will have to seal their testimony with their blood. I believe this people
is the best people of their age that ever lived on the earth, the church
of Enoch not excepted. We want you to come on with your tithes and
offerings to build this Temple, and when it is finished we want you to
spend a year in it and we will tell you things you never thought of.
The Twelve then proceeded to ordain Asael Smith as follows:
THE ORDINATION Of A PATRIARCH---ASAEL SMITH `Brother Asael Smith in
the name of the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth, we lay our hands upon your
head to ordain you to the office of Patriarch in this last Church of Jesus
Christ, and we bestow upon you the keys and power, and the right and
authority of blessing as a patriarch in the Church of Jesus Christ---and
we say unto thee, thou shalt be a father to many. Thou shalt feel the
Spirit of the Lord more than thou hast ever done before. Thy heart shall
be enlarged, and it shall be thy delight to bless thy family, and thy
posterity and the fatherless and widow; and the Spirit of the Lord will
rest upon you to predict upon the heads of those on whom you lay your
hands. things that shall be hereafter even in the eternal world. We ask
thee O Lord in the name of Jesus Christ that thou wouldst send thy Spirit
upon this thy servant, that his heart may circumscribe the wisdom and
knowledge of this world, and be enlarged so as to comprehend the things of
eternity. We say unto thee, thou art blessed: thou art of the royal blood,
and of thy lineage shall arise great and powerful men in the earth. We
seal upon you the powers we have mentioned with the keys thereof upon your
head in the name of Jesus Christ. Thou art the anointed of the Lord, one
who shall stand in the latter days and be a pillar in the church of the
living God, and one in whom the saints of God may trust to ask counsel.
These blessings we seal upon you in the name of Jesus Christ: Amen.'
THE BUSINESS OF THE CONFERENCE FOR OCTOBER 8TH OUTLINED President
Young then said, we want the conference to continue tomorrow for business.
We want the high priests' quorum together. President Miller will organize
them on the right of the stand.
The Presidents of Seventies will organize all the seventies. We want
to select a number of high priests to go through the states to preside
over congressional districts. Then we want to have the elders' quorum
organized that we can take out of the elders' quorum and fill up the
seventies. We want all the seventies to be here and their presidents. We
want them organized and begin to fill up the second quorum and then the
third and the fourth to the tenth. The business of the day will be to
ordain the Presidents of the Seventies and then fill the quorums of
seventies from the elders' quorums, and select men from the quorum of high
priests to go abroad and preside.
The conference then adjourned until tomorrow at nine o'clock, by
blessing from President John Smith.
REMARKS Of ELDER JOHN TAYLOR ON ECONOMIC POLICY TO BE INAUGURATED AT
NAUVOO Tuesday Morning, October 8th, 1844.----Previous to opening the
services of the day, Elder John Taylor made some remarks on our temporal
economy. He proceeded to say that we haVe the means of wealth within
ourselves.
`We have mechanics of every description from every country; men who
are capable of carrying through any branch of manufacture. We want capital
to commence with; but it is not necessary to wait for a very large amount,
for it is safer to go to work with small means, than with an immense sum;
for a rich man is very apt to overlook himself, and for want of proper
calculation often scatters his means without accomplishing any benefit to
the community. We can be made rich by our own enterprise and labor. Look
at Great Britain: how have they obtained it? They have obtained it by
encouraging their own manufacturers. It is true the poor are oppressed
there; but it is not the manufacturers that oppress the people. We are not
going to start anything on a large scale; our calculation is to have the
saints manufacture everything we need in Nauvoo, and all kinds of useful
articles to send abroad through the states and bring money here. Franklin
says, `time is money', and we want to spend our time in something that is
useful and beneficial. Since we came here we have labored under every
disadvantage. We have purchased Nauvoo, and much of the surrounding
country, which has taken all our money. We have no need now to purchase
more land; we now want to hit upon a plan to enable you to take your hands
out of your pockets and build work shops and other places of industry. We
have silk weavers, and cotton weavers, and every kind of mechanics that
can be thought of. We want these to come together, and we want those who
have money to lay it out and find them work, We have men here who can take
the raw silk and from that carry it through every process and manufacture
the shawls and dresses our women wear. We want to purchase raw cotton and
manufacture it into wearing apparel, etc. If we can manufacture cotton,
silk and woolen goods, we can keep our money at home; we will encourage
home manufacture, as the Quakers do. We want all the cutlers to get
together and manufacture our knives and forks, etc,, etc. I know that we,
as a community, can manufacture every thing we need. But I must now desist
as the time to commence meeting has arrived.'
ORGANIZATION OF THE HIGH PRIESTS AND THE SEVENTY Elder Heber C.
Kimball now appeared and took charge of the meeting, which was opened by
singing and prayer by Elder W. W. Phelps.
Elder George A. Smith moved that all in the elders' quorum under the
age of thirty-five should be ordained into the seventies', if they are in
good standing, and worthy, and will accept it. The motion was seconded and
carried unanimously.
Elder Heber C. Kimball stated that President Joseph Young's wife was
very sick and he wished to have her blessed, that brother Young might
tarry and perform the duties of his office, and if the congregation would
bless her let them say amen, and all the congregation said, amen.
He then recommended all those elders who are under the age of
thirty-five, and also all the priests, teachers, deacons and members, who
are recommended to be ordained, to withdraw and receive an ordination into
the seventies, which was done.
SPECIAL MISSION APPOINTED TO THE HIGH PRIESTS President Brigham Young
then appeared and proceeded to select men from the high priests' quorum,
to go abroad in all the congressional districts of the United States, to
preside over the branches of the church, as follows:
David Evans Joseph Holbrook A. O. Smoot John Lawson Edson Whipple
Abel Lamb Harvey Green J. H. Hale J. S. Fullmer G. D. Watt J. G. Divine J.
W. Johnson J. H. Johnson L. T. Coons Lester Brooks J. L. Robinson J. B.
Noble Howard Coray Rufus Fisher M. Sirrine D. B. Huntington Pelatiah Brown
Jefferson Hunt E. H. Groves Lorenzo Snow G. P. Dykes William Snow
Willard Snow Noah Packard Wm. Felshaw A. L. Tippets Winslow Farr J. C.
Kingsbury Shadrach Roundy Jacob Foutz S. B. Stoddard Peter Haws E. D.
Woolley Thomas Gates Solomon Hancock Simeon Carter Abraham Palmer Albert
Brown James Brown Levi Gifford R. McBride Elijah Fordham W. D. Pratt
Edward Fisher Martin H. Peck Franklin D. Richards Morris Phelps Isaac
Clark D. McArthur J. S. Holman Archibald Patten Wandell Mace L. H. Ferry
Charles Thompson Charles Crismon John Murdock Lyman Stoddard John Chase
Arnold Stevens A. L. Lamoreaux David Fullmer E. T. Benson Joseph Allen
Thomas Grover Andrew Perkins C. L. Whitney Daniel Carter Addison Everett
Wm. G. Perkins Moses Clawson Graham Coltrin William Parks D. H. Redfield
George Colson Titus Billings H. W. Miller Harvey Olumstead Isaac Higbee
Daniel Stanton Daniel Garn
EXPLANATION OF THE MISSION President Young explained the object for
which these high priests were being sent out, and informed them that it
was not the design to go and tarry six months and then return, but to go
and settle down, where they can take their families and tarry until the
Temple is built, and then come and get their endowments, and return
to their families and build up a stake as large as this.
President Young then selected from the elders' quorums some to be
ordained high priests, whose names for the want of room are omitted for
the present.
He also selected a number more to go into the seventies after which
the remainder of the morning was spent in calling out the several quorums
of seventies, and giving charges to the several presidents.
Brother Joseph L. Heywood was ordained under the hands of Elder
Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball and Parley P. Pratt, to be a bishop to the
church in Quincy, Illinois.
Previous to adjournment the Presidents of the Seventies ordained
upwards of 400 into the quorums of the seventies, and the presidents of
the high priests' quorum ordained 40 into their quorum.
The meeting then adjourned until 2 o'clock p. m.
INSTRUCTIONS TO SEVENTIES AND ELDERS Two o'clock p. m.----Conference
resumed business. Those presidents of the seventies who were present and
had not received an ordination to the presidency over the seventies, were
called out and ordained, under the hands of President Joseph Young and
others.
The remainder of the afternoon was spent in filling up the quorums of
seventies, and at the close, eleven quorums were filled and properly
organized, and about 40 elders organized as a part of the twelfth quorum.
President Brigham Young then said that the elders young men who are
capable of preaching, will be ordained; `but do not be anxious. You must
now magnify your calling. Elders who go to borrowing horses or money, and
running away with it, will be cut off from the church without any
ceremony. They will not have as much lenity as heretofore. The seventies
will have to be subject to their presidents and council. We do not want
any man to go to preaching until he is sent. If an elder wants to go to
preaching let him go into the seventies, You are all apostles to the
nations to carry the gospel; and when we send you to build up the kingdom,
we will give you the keys, and power and authority. If the people will let
us alone we will convert the world, and if they persecute us we will do it
the quicker. I would exhort all who go from this place to do right and be
an honor to the cause. Inasmuch as you will go forth and do right you
shall have more of the spirit than you have heretofore. We have had a good
conference; we have had beautiful weather and no accidents; and if you
will go and do honor to the Lord for this, say amen;' and all the people
said amen,
On motion the conference adjourned until the 6th of April next, at 10
o'clock a. m.
Meeting dismissed by prayer from Elder Heber C. Kimball, [Signed]
BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. Wm. Clayton, Clerk,'
At this conference there were about sixty brethren ordained high
priests and four hundred and thirty ordained seventies.
Wednesday, 9.----A council of the Twelve was held at my house.
At a meeting of the trades called for the purpose of discussing the
propriety of manufacturing instead of importing articles of common use in
the city of Nauvoo, ----John Taylor was appointed chairman and W. W.
Phelps, secretary.
Elders John Taylor, Orson Spencer and Phineas Richards were appointed
a general committee to devise plans, and confer with the special
committees of the several trades."
CHAPTER XXIV
PRELIMINARY STEPS TO THE FORTHCOMING PROSECUTION OF THE MURDERERS
OF JOSEPH AND HYRUM SMITH----THE WORK IN THE SOCIETY ISLANDS----- TEMPLE
AFFAIRS----FINANCIAL EMBARRASSMENT
"Wednesday, October 9, 1844 (continued) ;----Governor Ford wrote the
following:
LETTER OF GOVERNOR FORD AUTHORIZING THE USE OF THE NAUVOO LEGION FOR
PROTECTION OF THE COURTS `State of Illinois, Executive Department,
Springfield, October 9th, 1844. To Lieutenant-General Brigham Young of the
Nauvoo Legion: Sir: It may be probable that there may be further
disturbances in Hancock county by those opposed to the prosecutions
against the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. They may combine together
in arms to subvert justice and prevent those prosecutions from going on.
They may also attack or resist the civil authorities of the state in that
county and they may attack some of the settlements or people there with
violence.
The sheriff of the county may want a military force to guard the
court and protect it or its officers or the jurors thereof or the
witnesses attending court from the violence of a mob.
In all these cases you are hereby ordered and directed to hold in
readiness a sufficient force under your command of the Nauvoo Legion to
act under the direction of the said sheriff for the purposes aforesaid:
and also to suppress mobs which may be collected ~n said county to injure
the persons or property of any of the citizens. In testimony whereof I
have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of state the day and year
first herein above written. [Signed] THOMAS FORD, Governor and
Commander-in-Chief.'
NOTE ACCOMPANYING THE GOVERNOR'S LETTER `The enclosed order is one of
great delicacy to execute. I have conversed with Mr. Backenstos and others
and my opinion is the same as theirs that employing the Legion even
legally may call down the vengeance of the people against your city. It if
should be the means of getting up a civil war in Hancock I do not know how
much force
I could bring to the aid of government. A force to be efficient would
have to be called out as volunteers; a draft would bring friends and
enemies alike. I called for twenty-five hundred before and by ordering out
independent companies got four hundred and seventy-five. Three of those
companies, the most efficient, have since been broken up and would refuse
to go again. I should anticipate but a small force to be raised by
volunteers. I would not undertake to march a drafted militia there.
Two-thirds of them would join the enemy. The enclosed order is more
intended as a permission to use the Legion in the manner indicated, if
upon the whole matter it is thought advisable, than a compulsory command.
.
Your most wise and discreet councilors and county officers will have
to act according to their best judgment. [Signed] THOMAS FORD.'
Thursday, 10.----Elder Heber C. Kimball and myself spent most of the
day at Father Ezra Chase's.
Friday, 11.---Evening, I attended prayer meeting at Elder Kimball's.
Saturday, 12.----I met with the city council,
Sunday, 13.----Meeting at the stand; Elder Parley P. Pratt preached.
The seventies met at their hall; Elder Orson Pratt preached and
instructed the seventies in relation to their duties.
Tuesday, 15.----Accompanied by Elder Heber C. Kimball and my brother
Lorenzo D. Young I started for Ottoway. We traveled to Ramus and stayed
with Brother Erastus Bingham, where Parley P. Pratt joined us.
A meeting of delegates from Trades Committees was held in the Masonic
Hall, Nauvoo, John Taylor chairman; at which it was reported that enough
had been made manifest to ensure the practicability of making Nauvoo a
great manufacturing depot.
Wednesday, 16.----Accompanied by the brethren before named I traveled
to Brother Justus Ames's near Galesburg, forty miles. Next day, we
traveled to LaFayette and stayed with Brother Austin Grant, and on the
following day traveled to Providence encountering a wet snowstorm from
which I took cold and suffered from diarrhea: we stayed at a tavern.
Saturday, 19.----We drove forty-four miles and arrived at Ottoway.
Sunday, 20.----We held two meetings at Brother Busard's.
Elders Heber C. Kimball and Parley P. Pratt and I preached: we had a
profitable time.
The seventies met in their hall at Nauvoo.
After ordaining presidents who had been selected to preside over the
quorums, a call was made by request of the major-general for thirty wagons
and teams to be in readiness at the hall be daylight tomorrow, with three
days' provisions and horse feed sufficient for the journey. This call was
made to convey witnesses to Carthage in safety, and for protection during
the trials at court: as two of our best men were murdered in Carthage in
June and that too under the faith and pledge of the state and since
caution is the parent of safety, it was deemed inadvisable to venture upon
the pledges and promises of others.
Monday, 21.----About one hundred and fifty brethren went from Nauvoo
to Carthage early this morning and encamped near Crooked Creek; although
they exhibited no arms their appearance created much excitement. The
company consisted of the city council, police and those concerned in
abating the Nauvoo Expositor nuisance with the witnesses and others who
had business in Carthage: by encamping they avoided the necessity of
paying hotel bills to enemies and the risk of being murdered in their
beds.
With the brethren accompanying me I dined at Brother Reuben Miller's,
crossed Fox river and proceeded to Brother Dunavan's and remained all
night.
Tuesday, 22.----We visited the Norwegian branch in La Salle county,
and met with the saints in the evening.
I received a lengthy communication from Elder Wilford Woodruff
relative to the injudicious course pursued by Elders William Smith, George
J. Adams and Samuel Brannan.
A correspondent wrote from Carthage to the Nauvoo Neighbor as
follows:
`Court is in session. The mob is here but not in great numbers. They
are fierce and vindictive and disposed to do harm if they dare. They had a
violent warlike meeting in the courthouse last night, in which they tried
to get up a story that there were two hundred Mormons and three hundred
Indians encamped near this place in hostile array for the purpose of an
attack on the town. They passed panic resolutions, advising the court to
adjourn and threatened if that was not done that they would raise an armed
force as they say to protect themselves, but as all know, for the purpose
of awing the court and juries and driving off witnesses. Roosevelt, Sharp,
Williams and company were the leaders in getting up the excitement. They
hope to get it believed abroad that they are about to be attacked by the
Mormons as an excuse for some outrage which they wish, but have not the
courage to perpetrate.'
Wednesday, 23.----In company with Elder Heber C, Kimball, Parley P.
Pratt and Lorenzo D. Young, I called the brethren together as a conference
principles of the gospel to them and appointed George P. Dykes, high
priest, to preside over the Norwegian branch and the saints in that
vicinity of country, and ordained Reuben Miller a bishop,
We bought one hundred acres of land from Brothers Goodman and
Anderson, and thereupon laid out a city. We selected the ground for a
meetinghouse and drove the southeast corner stake. We called the city
Norway and dedicated it to the Lord. Evening, we ordained Brother Phillip
Hammond Busard a high priest and set him apart as a counselor to Brother
Dykes.
Thursday, 24.----We left Ottoway and drove forty- three miles to
Brother Parley P. Pratt's farm. We found his brother, Anson Pratt, and
family well: they were glad to see us.
The brethren who went to Carthage returned home to Nauvoo. The
members of the city council who were not indicted by the grand jury, were
released from their bonds., eleven brethren were indicted for riot: the
judge and attorney advised the brethren to return to Nauvoo to allay the
excitement. The trials are continued until next spring term of court: the
Nauvoo Legion is a terror.
Brother Hyrum Smith prophesied that the governor would call upon the
Nauvoo Legion to maintain the supremacy of the law, which has been
fulfilled according to [by] the governor's late order.
Willard Richards was subpoenaed to appear before the grand jury, but
being unable and unwilling to go to Carthage application was made to the
court to get an attachment for his person, the attorney averring that it
was necessary to have someone to prove that Joseph and Hyrum were dead,
and he presumed that Richards was in possession of that knowledge; the
court however refused the attachment as they considered that fact could be
proved without bringing a sick man out of his bed. The Twelve all left
Nauvoo during the court except Elder Willard Richards who was confined to
his bed, and Elder George A. Smith who gave such counsel as the excitement
of the times required.
WORK IN SOCIETY ISLANDS REPORTED Elder Noah Rogers wrote from
Huahine, Society Islands, of date as follows:
`I have left Tahiti and am now on the Island of Huahine, which is
about ninety or one hundred miles distant. The work on Tahiti has got a
good start. We baptized several whites, and several more said that they
believed and would be baptized soon, and several natives told me when I
left Tahiti that they meant to be baptized soon.
I left Brother Grouard there, who has got the language very well, and
I have no doubt of his faithfulness, because he is a firm and faithful
brother, and seeks the good of the kingdom of God.
I have been but one week on Huahine. I expect soon to obtain a house
and preach as there is one or two that show some disposition to assist me
in getting one. Almost every white man on this island keeps a grogshop and
a gambling house, which is a very bad example for the natives. If you say
anything to them about it, they will say that the whites learned [taught]
us. They are full of licentiousness, which the sailors are very willing to
encourage. When I see so much iniquity and abomination, it makes me sick
to the very heart, and I wonder that the Lord has spared the world so long
as he has. There is but one missionary [i. e. sectarian] here, who rules
the island, as it were. All the people say that he is a very nice man, but
I cannot say so much of him as he refuses to talk with me.' with my
brethren, we found our families
Monday, 28.----I returned to Nauvoo well During our absence it was
unknown to the people whither we had gone.
The Neighbor announced that true bills of indictment had been found
against several persons of Hancock county, for the murder of Joseph and
Hyrum Smith on the 27th of June last. Among the most conspicuous are,
Colonel Levi Williams, Thomas C. Sharp, Mark Aldrich and Jacob C. Davis.
The latter a senator in the legislature of Illinois.
I attended a council with my brethren of the Twelve, the Trustees,
the Temple Committee and Brother William Weeks the architect at the Temple
Office, settling the differences existing between the Temple Committee and
Brother Weeks.
Thursday, 31.----Elder Heber C. Kimball and I visited the Temple. I
called at Sister Snively's with Brother Parley P. Pratt.
Friday, November 1, 1844.----The seventies met at 10 a. m.; President
Joseph Young took the lead of business. Brother Eleazur Miller was
ordained a president and twenty brethren were ordained seventies. I
addressed the meeting on the subject of Elections, and voting for party
candidates. I told them I wish I could communicate my feelings to them
without speaking; and gave some of my views in relation to political men,
and their principles.
Sunday, 3.----I went to the Seventies' Hall in the forenoon, attended
the high priests' quorum in the afternoon, and met again with the
seventies in the evening.
At a conference held in Livonia, Wayne county, Michigan, on the 1st,
2nd and 3rd inst., fourteen branches were represented, five elders
volunteered to go and preach the gospel, and a resolution was passed to
sustain the Twelve and all the authorities in carrying out the
commandments of God that have been given through Joseph Smith, our
martyred Prophet. The sacrament was administered, and much instruction
given on the first principles of the gospel.
Thursday, 7.----With Elders John Taylor and George A. Smith, I
visited the Trustees, afterwards visited at Brother Joseph Bates Noble's
with Elder Amasa M. Lyman, Sister Olive Frost and others.
A conference was held in New Trenton, Franklin county, Indiana, on
the 6th and 7th inst. A good feeling prevailed, the Spirit of God was made
manifest. President David Pettegrew baptized nine persons, and many were
believing.
Friday, 8.----I went out to Fisher's Brick Yard and laid hands on the
sick.
Saturday, 9.----I met with the city council. They passed an ordinance
to prohibit the vending of spirituous liquors in the city under a penalty
of not less than $25.00.
Sunday, 10.----I preached about two hours to the saints at the
meeting ground; many present; had a good time.
Evening, seventies met: after the ordinations and business were
attended to, Elder George A, Smith addressed the meeting on the progress
of the kingdom.
At a quarterly conference held at St. Louis, present of the
Twelve----1, high priests----4, seventies----15, elders----21 ,
priests----13, teachers----2, deacons----5, members----172. The
congregation was large, and notwithstanding the crowd strict attention was
given to the interesting discourse of Elder Orson Hyde.
During conference seventeen persons joined the branch by letter, and
one by baptism.
Monday, 11.----Attended council with the Twelve, bishops, high
council, mayor and policemen, and transacted business for the welfare of
the church.
Tuesday, 12.----I went to the Temple; called on Elders Kimball and
Richards and found them recovering. I attended and addressed a meeting of
the various trades of the city; a committee of three were appointed to see
to the erection of a cotton factory, inasmuch as the machinery could be
obtained. Elders John Taylor and Orson Spencer addressed the meeting,
William Clayton recorded the following: `As I was walking along Front
Street, St. Louis, I saw a man engaged cutting a stone monument. I was
amazed to see these words already cut on the monument, viz. `Highwater
June 27th, 1844, that was the day when this generation rejected the
Prophet of God, when he and his brother Hyrum, the Patriarch, were
murdered at Carthage jail by a wicked mob, and this was the day when the
waters overflowed the Missouri at the highest, when the Front Street of
St. Louis was covered eight feet deep with the flood.'
Thursday, 14.----Elder B. L. Clapp wrote the following brief account
of his mission: `I left Nauvoo August 12th, 1843, on a special mission to
the south, and returned June 7th, 1844, during which time I traveled 4,444
miles, held 176 meetings and baptized 118 souls in the states of Alabama
and Mississippi.'
Friday, 15.----I met with the authorities and held a council in
relation to building the arsenal and carrying on the public works.
Sunday, 17.----Ten a. m. seventies met, Joseph Young presiding;
twelve brethren were ordained to be seventies; several were recommended to
the high priests' quorum. I attended in the evening and addressed the
meeting.
Tuesday, 19,--Elder Orson Hyde and I visited the sick. A trades
meeting was held in the Masonic Hall addressed by Elders Taylor, Scovil,
Hunter and others. Elder J. W. Crosby wrote the following:
MISSION IN CANADIAN PROVINCES `In August, 1843, Elder B. Brown and
myself (having been appointed to visit the British provinces) proceeded to
western New York, where we spent the winter. We organized several branches
of the church, baptized upward of 150 souls, and held two conferences.
After tarrying eight months, we went to Montreal and Quebec, making a
short stay in each of these Catholic cities, preached some and Circulated
some books, pamphlets, etc. We proceeded to New Brunswick, and amid much
opposition, persecution and personal violence, baptized 47; organized them
into two branches, both in the county of York, above Frederickston. We
returned to Boston in October and have spent a few weeks in the regions
round about.'
Saturday, 23.----Bishop N. K. Whitney met with the lesser priesthood
at the house of Samuel Gulley, and filled up the different quorums. I
attended and in company with Elder Kimball and Bishop Whitney, ordained
Brother Edward Hunter bishop, and set him apart to the care of the fifth
ward [Nauvoo].
Sunday, 24.----Ten a. m. meeting of seventies in their hall. The
seven presidents of the thirteenth quorum were ordained. Twenty brethren
were ordained seventies, President Joseph Young preached.
Monday, 25.----A remonstrance against the division of Hancock county,
numerously signed was placed in the hands of A. W. Babbitt, Esq., for
presentation to the legislature of Illinois.
Saturday, 30.---Received a letter from Elder Wilford Woodruff, giving
a particular account of the eastern branches of the church, which he had
visited on his way to New York.
Sunday, December 1, 1844.----Elder Parley P. Pratt was appointed to
go to the city of New York, and take charge of the press, regulate and
counsel the immigration that may come that way from Europe and take the
presidency of all the eastern branches of the church,
Eleven a. m., seventies met in their hall, Joseph Young presiding;
sixteen brethren were ordained seventies; Elder George A. Smith preached
at length on the subject of Apostasy.
Monday, 2.-----I extract from the Times and Seasons (p. 728) the
following:----
A VOICE FROM THE TEMPLE By the Temple Committee `We would say to all
those who wish to bring tithes for the building of the Temple in the city
of Nauvoo, that we have deemed it wisdom to remove our office, for the
better accommodation of business, and of all who visit us on business, to
the new and commodious brick store of Elder Parley P. Pratt, situated one
block north from the west end of the Temple; at which place we will attend
every day in the week (Sunday excepted) from morning till evening, to
receive donations for the Temple and also attend to all other matters of
business pertaining to the Trustees. We publish this notice that the
brethren may not need to inquire where they shall deposit their donations.
We have only one place of deposit in the city of Nauvoo and that is the
above mentioned brick store.
We would also once more offer a word of caution to all the saints for
their benefit, inasmuch as there are those who are going round amongst the
branches of the church to collect funds for the Temple without authority,
and who are all the while practicing impositions upon the brethren. They
generally use the property for their own individual benefit, and make no
returns of it to us, and consequently when the donors come to see the
records their names are not there. Many have felt to censure us on this
account, but censure in such a case is unjust, for we have published
notices repeatedly, warning the saints not to credit any man's testimony
as to his being an agent unless he can show written authority from us or
the Quorum of the Twelve, and all those who entrust their means in the
hands of unauthorized agents, do it at their own risk, and not ours.
The presiding elders in the branches have a right to call for, and to
see the authority of any and every man professing to be an agent for the
church, and if he is an honest servant and a man of authority he will
always be ready to produce his testimonials to proper authority, but if he
is an impostor he will either make excuses, or he will probably scorn at
the idea of your questioning a man of God as to his authority. In some
instances men have considered themselves insulted when asked by the
presiding elders for their authority, but this is only an evidence either
: of their own wickedness, or that they come on an errand on which they
were never legally sent. Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing!
We are more particular on this subject because there have been
instances, not a few, wherein men who are not Latter-day Saints, but on
the contrary our most bitter enemies, have gone round gulling the churches
and professing to be `Mormons' and agents to collect funds for the
building of the `Temple and Nauvoo House', etc.; and they have taken
advantage of the liberality of the brethren by all kinds of fine speeches
and persuasive inducements to get away with their money, until they have
accomplished their objects, and then they become `missing'. It is not our
wish to see the brethren cheated so barefacedly after all the persecutions
we have suffered, and we once more repeat the caution, be wise and
careful.
There are instances where the saints rarely see an authorized agent,
in consequence of the distance from Nauvoo, or, in consequence of their
residing some distance from a regularly organized branch. In such cases,
when they want to send up their donations, let them do it by some man with
whom they are well acquainted, and who they are well satisfied will do
right, and carry their donation safe to its destination. And it would be
well in all cases, where the brethren abroad send donations by authorized
agents, to send a letter by mail (post paid), to the Trustees-in-Trust,
informing them of the facts, and by whom their donations were sent, etc.,
and a good man will not blame you for being thus careful, for the same law
that guards your rights will guard his rights, and the rights of every
man.
It is our intention for the future to publish the names of our agents
in the Nauvoo Neighbor and the Times and Seasons, which we consider to be
safer and better than written authority, inasmuch as he latter can be
`forged', but the former can not, and the agents can carry a copy to the
paper, having their authority with them wherever they go.
There is also another subject which we would touch upon in this
notice. There have been instances wherein men have gone amongst the
branches of the church, collecting money and agreeing to pay the same
amount in labor on the Temple, which they represent will answer as good a
purpose as the money. We have to say on this subject that all such
transactions are regarded as fraud, and is only a more crafty way of
cheating the brethren. It would be folly for us to tell a man that ten
days labor on the Temple would answer the law of tithing as well as ten
dollars in money, when he was possessed of one hundred dollars in money.
We know better, and every faithful brother and sister in the church will
know better when they understand the principles of salvation as well as
old Abraham, Isaac and Jacob did. For Jacob said of all thou givest me,
one-tenth I will give unto thee, and whoever will read the history of the
ancients with care will find that the law was, that they must pay
one-tenth of all in its kind, whether cattle, horses, sheep, or fruits of
the field. `Tis true there were laws of redemption, whereby a man might
redeem `ought of his tithing' but it was so strict, that it is far easier
to pay the tithing in kind rather than redeem it.
Jesus said, all who do the works of Abraham are the children of
Abraham, and he (Abraham) paid tithes of all. The Savior also said to the
Pharisees, `ye pay tithes of mint and annis and cummin, but neglect the
weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy and faith, these ought ye to
have done, and not have left the others undone.
We make reference to these subjects that the brethren may take the
hint, and think for themselves for just so sure as there are laws
established from before the foundation of the world for the government of
the Church of Christ just so sure will we fail of obtaining a fullness of
salvation if we do not abide by those laws. No man can obtain a celestial
glory if he will not abide a celestial law, and the law of tithing is a
celestial law, and always was in force where the Melchizedek priesthood
was inherited.
Why did the Savior say, `how hardly shall they that have riches enter
the kingdom of heaven:' Just converse with a rich man upon the subject of
tithing, and you will soon see a reason why the rich can hardly enter the
kingdom of heaven. When you converse with a man who has got ten thousand
dollars in money in his hands, and tell him that his tithing will be one
thousand dollars in money, you generally will see the force of the words
of Jesus. That man would consider himself almost ruined if he should
donate his one thousand dollars, whereas a man who has only ten dollars in
money in the world, will come forward with cheerfulness and donate his
tenth with joy. Remember the widow with her two mites.
No man or woman who really desires to secure a fullness of salvation
will wish to be kept ignorant of those principles, and laws and ordinances
on which his salvation depends, and consequently we are free to give a
hint on the subject of tithing upon us to instruct the people, but because
we realize in some measure the importance of it ourselves to set the
saints to `thinking for themselves' on the subject.
When the saints ask for instructions, the Twelve are the proper
authorities to refer to, and they will deal it out as fast as the saints
are willing to obey. We are happy to have to say that the Temple has
progressed more rapidly than our most sanguine expectations could have
imagined. All the capitals are on the walls, except one, which if the
weather permit, will be up in a few days. The weather has been remarkably
favorable and continues so to the present. The feelings of the saints are
good and their hearts are cheered while they look upon the House of God
and reflect on the prospects of its speedy completion. Their toils and
poverty and persecutions are all swallowed up in the cheering prospects of
their reward, only a little ways ahead.
Peace smiles upon our beloved city. And the great God looks down upon
this people with sympathy and compassion from day to day, dispensing his
heavenly blessings upon all the families of his saints according to his
infinite wisdom and their willingness to receive them. The hearts of the
saints are united firmer than ever, notwithstanding the vigorous efforts
made by satan and dissenters to sow amongst us discord, strife, and
confusion, and every evil work, scattering not excepted. Many houses are
in progress of erection, which on account of the lateness of the season
will have to stand unfinished until next spring. Every effort is being
made to establish and put in operation various branches of manufacture for
the employment of the saints, and the prospects are good, but not
unattended with difficulty, toil and anxiety. But diligence, economy, and
steady perseverance in a good cause, never fails to bring its reward, and
very often the sweetest roses are surrounded by the sharpest thorns, and
the greatest treasures deposited in places the most difficult of access,
where we have to dig, and dig long and deep in order to obtain them.
We might prolong these remarks, but perhaps we have said enough for
once. We will leave the subject, praying the blessings of our heavenly
Father to rest upon all good men, and especially . . upon the saints, that
they may have peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, and attain to that
knowledge which will obtain for them an inheritance in the eternal kingdom
of our God.
We have the honor to be
Your most obedient servants, and brethren in the faith of Christ, N.
K. WHITNEY, GEORGE MILLER, Trustees-in-Trust. By Wm, Clayton, Recorder.
Nauvoo, Dec. 2, 1844.'
Monday, December 2, (continued) .----I attended a council at Elder
Willard Richards: present----the brethren of the Twelve, the Trustees; the
Temple Committee and architect. The duties of the Temple Committee and
architect were explained.
Evening; the Presidents of Seventies met.
Tuesday, 3.----City police met. Captain Hosea Stout instructed them
pertaining to their duties.
Thursday, 5.----I insert the following minutes:
COUNCIL MINUTES OF FINANCIAL AFFAIRS "Afternoon, a council was held
in the recorder's office, President Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball of
the Quorum of the Twelve were present, also N. K. Whitney and George
Miller, Trustees and Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds Cahoon, the Temple
Committee, The council was called for the purpose of devising means to
raise the sum of 83,100, which is due from the Trustees to several
individuals for church lands, and which will have to be paid within three
months or the lands be forfeited, worth from ten to fifteen thousand
dollars. About one thousand dollars of the aforesaid sum must be paid in a
few days. After conversing some time on the prospects of raising funds,
President Young said that his feelings were to draw the money lying in the
possession of Sisters Mary Smith and Mercy R. Thompson and A. Cutler,
which money has been donated by the sisters of the church, by paying one
cent a week, for the purpose of purchasing the nails and glass for the
Temple and which amounted to five or six hundred dollars already
collected. It is considered wisdom to do this to save the church property
from the hands of our enemies; and the straitened circumstances under
which the Trustees labor in consequence of persecution and oppression---we
consider sufficient to justify the course. It is also considered certain
that the money will be ready by the time the nails and glass are needed
for the Temple, and that the money will be saving so much interest,
whereas at the present it is lying useless. The suggestion by President
Young seemed to meet the feelings of all the brethren, and it was
concluded to draw an order for the money on Mrs. Mary Smith, and Mercy R.
Thompson, which was immediately done.'
LETTER Of PRESIDENT YOUNG TO RELIEF SOCIETY PRESIDENCY "To Mrs. Mary
Smith and Mercy R. Thompson, Dear Sisters: We are under the necessity of
raising a considerable sum of money for the use of the church within a few
days. We have counseled together on the subject, and have considered it
wisdom to call upon you for the money in your hands, donated by the
sisters as penny subscription. You will therefore please deliver the same
to Bishop Whitney when he presents this order.
Done by order of the Quorum of the Twelve, for and in behalf of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG,
President of the Quorum of the Twelve. William Clayton, Clerk, Dec. 5,
1844.
N. B. Elder W. Richards, the clerk of the Quorum of the Twelve is
very sick and unable to attend to business, which is the reason of the
above signature as clerk.'"
CHAPTER XXV
PROGRESS OF WORK ON THE TEMPLE---- MISCELLANEOUS MOVEMENTS IN CHURCH
AND STATE
Friday, December 6, 1844.----I [Brigham Young] insert the following
minutes:----
THE PLACING OF THE LAST CAPITAL ON THE TEMPLE `The last of the
capitals was placed on the walls of the Temple, The workmen commenced
raising the stone at half after 10 o'clock, but when about half way up one
of the block shives broke in two. This placed the matter in a dangerous
position, it was impossible to raise the stone higher without a new shive,
and to attempt to let it down would have cut off the rope instantly. After
much labor the workmen secured the tackle so that it could not move and
having this done, they fixed a new shive in the block and after about an
hour and a half's delay, at half after one p. m. the stone was safely
fixed in its place in the wall, This stone is the largest one among the
capitals and is supposed to weigh over two tons. There are thirty capitals
around the Temple, each one composed of five stones, viz. one base stone,
one large stone representing the sun rising just above the clouds, the
lower part obscured; the third stone represents two hands each holding a
trumpet, and the last two stones form a cap over the trumpet stone, and
these all form the capital, the average cost of which is about four
hundred and fifty dollars each, These stones are very beautifully cut,
especially the face and trumpet stones, and are an evidence of great skill
in the architect and ingenuity on the part of the stonecutters. They
present a very pleasing and noble appearance, and seem very appropriate in
their places. The first capital was set on the 23rd of September last,
making but a little over ten weeks between the first and the last, and out
of that time the workmen lost about three weeks through bad weather, and
having to wait for stone,
There has not been the slightest accident attending the raising of
these large stones, except the second one which was set, the workmen,
undertook to move the stone a little nearer the building without having
first fixed the guy ropes to the crane, and while in the attempt the crane
fell over with a tremendous crash and fell within about a foot of Brother
Thomas Jaap, one of the workmen, who ran as soon as he saw the crane
falling but happened to run in the same direction in which it fell.
Providentially no further damage was done than to the crane which was
partially broken.
The weather has been very favorable most of the time, but on account
of its being so late in the season, it was generally feared we would not
succeed in getting them [the capitals] up before winter set in, but it
seems as though the Lord held up the storms and the cold for our
advantage, until this important piece of labor has been accomplished to
our utmost satisfaction and delight.
There are yet twelve of the capitals without trumpet stones, and will
have to remain so until spring; three of them however are finished and
several others nearly so.
The weather changed this morning. It rained nearly all the time the
men were at work; and about two hours after the last capital was set, it
commenced snowing and continued until the ground was covered about four
inches deep, Nine o'clock p. m., it now freezes very sharp and to all
appearance stern winter has taken possession of the atmosphere in
earnest.'
Elder Wilford Woodruff and family, in company with Elder H. Clark and
Dan Jones and their families, and Elders Milton Holmes and Leonard W,
Hardy sailed from New York in the packet ship, John B. Skiddy, for
Liverpool.
Sunday, 8.----The seventies met in their hall. Eight brethren were
ordained seventies. A letter was read from Elder B. F. Grouard from the
Society Isles. Elder Henry Harriman, George A. Smith and Joseph Young
instructed the elders.
Elder Willard Richards, city recorder, opened office in his new
house, and appointed Thomas Bullock his deputy. Thomas [Bullock] commenced
putting the city records in order, which had been neglected some four
months in consequence of Brother Willard's inability through sickness.
Monday, 9.----A conference was held in Comstock, Kalamazoo county,
Michigan on the 8th and 9th inst. Crandall Dunn presiding; five branches
were represented numbering 107 members, 1 high priest, 16 elders, 1
teacher, and one deacon. Resolutions were passed to sustain the Twelve and
agreeing to tithe themselves to aid in building the Temple. During the
conference much good instruction was given by Elder Crandall Dunn, C. M.
Webb, and D. Savage; one priest was ordained, 3 children blessed, and one
person baptized.
Wednesday, 11.----Elder Willard Richards recommenced to gather
materials for the Church History, assisted by W. W. Phelps.
Thursday, 12.-----The high priests of the 5th ward met in the Concert
Hall.
Friday, 13.-----The Aaronic priesthood met. Bishop N. K. Whitney
presided. He spoke on the subject of furnishing employment for the poor,
the manufacturing of straw and palm leaf hats, and willow baskets. Two
were ordained.
Saturday, 14.----Received a lengthy communication from A. W. Babbitt,
Esq., house of representatives. Springfield. Advising in relation to his
communications with the governor, the anticipated movements of the
legislature, and his intended course pertaining to the chartered rights of
the city of Nauvoo; to which a reply was written by Orson Spencer showing
the injustice and unconstitutionality of a repeal of the Nauvoo Charter.
In company with Elder Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, John
Taylor, and George A. Smith, I attended city council. An ordinance was
passed organizing the Seventies' Library and Institute Association. The
council expressed their views in relation to the illegality of the
legislature interfering with the chartered right of the city of Nauvoo;
when those rights had never been exercised to the hurt or the prejudice of
the innocent.
Sunday, 15.-----Ten a. m. meeting of seventies. President Joseph
Young, presiding. Twenty-nine persons were unanimously received by vote
and ordained to be seventies.
The ordinance of the city council in relation to the Seventies'
Library and Institute Association was read.
Elder George A. Smith advised the elders to get up schools, that all
the seventies who would, might be taught in the branches of education, and
prepare themselves that the least might be fully competent, to correspond
with the wise men of the world.
Good and useful instruction relative to manners, order and good
behavior were given by the president and some of his council.
Monday, 16.----I extract from the Tithing Record No. 2:----
`A few days ago the Twelve and the Trustees counseled together on the
propriety of employing a suitable number of carpenters this winter to
prepare the timbers for the Temple, so as to have them all ready when the
stone work was finished.
They concluded to employ fifteen persons steadily as carpenters, and
that the architect be authorized to select such men as he has confidence
in---men who are well qualified to do the work that is wanted. It was also
concluded to fix up a shop in the Temple for the carpenters to work in.
Accordingly the south side of the lower story was weather-boarded around
and a convenient shop made of it on Saturday, and today, the men have gone
to work.
The names of the carpenters selected as steady hands are as follows:
viz: Truman O. Angel, William Felshaw, William F. Cahoon, Joseph S.
Schofield, Samuel Rolfe, Zimri H. Baxter, Addison Everett, John Stiles,
Hugh Riding, Miles Romney, Jabez Durfee, Stephen Longstroth, Benjamin
Rolfe, Nicholas T. Silcock, William Carmichael Hiram Mace, Daniel Avery,
Gideon Gibbs, and Wandel Mace.
N. B.---Daniel Avery is employed to take care of the shop and the
fires, etc.
The three last named are engaged in the sawmill shop.'
Tuesday, 17.----I copy the following minutes on file:----
PRESIDENCY APPOINTED FOR KIRTLAND `The Quorum of the Twelve and
others in council assembled at the office of President Brigham Young, at
the corner of Kimball and Granger Streets.
Moved and seconded that Brother Reuben McBride take the presidency
over all the affairs pertaining to the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints in Kirtland---both spiritually and temporally---which
was carried by a unanimous voice of said council.
A letter was then read before the council which President Young
received from Brothers Joseph Parsons and James McDowell, residing in
Pittsburgh, containing an acknowledgment that they had been deceived by
Elder Rigdon's false pretensions to Presidency, and after a calm and
careful investigation of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants and Book of
Mormon, they had renounced the pretensions of Sidney Rigdon as being false
and felt satisfied that the Quorum of the Twelve held the keys of the
kingdom.
Voted unanimously that their acknowledgment be received and they be
received into full fellowship with the saints.'
I received a letter from Horace R. Hotchkiss proposing to dispose of
lots in Nauvoo, to be compensated by improvements on adjoining lots; also
on the subject of some manufactures and building up the city of Nauvoo. I
replied informing him that property was not so high as it had been, and
referred him to Elder Taylor for information on the trades operations.
The brethren of the Twelve visited Elder Willard Richards who was
sick.
Wednesday, 18.----Evening with Elder Heber C. Kimball and Bishop N.
K. Whitney. I attended the practice of music at the Concert Hall.
Friday, 20.----In company with Elder Heber C. Kimball and George A.
Smith I spent a portion of the day at the Tithing Office regulating
matters pertaining to tithings; called on Brother Willard Richards, found
him some better.
William Clayton records he `had some conversation with Brother Cahoon
respecting making a feast for the poor and proposed to do it on New Year's
day. Daniel H. Wells, Esq., agreed to give ten dollars to aid the feast
for the poor.'
Sunday, 22.-----I met as usual with the Twelve Apostles and others
for prayer.
Ten a.m., seventies met at their hall, Joseph Young presiding: five
presidents and forty seventies were ordained; fourteenth quorum organized;
two brethren were recommended to the high priests' quorum.
Monday, 23.-----The Aaronic priesthood met; Bishop
N. K. Whitney presiding; four persons were ordained to the office of
priest.
Tuesday, 24.----The stockholders of the Seventies' Library and
Institute Association elected Elder George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman,
Joseph Young, Levi W. Hancock, Albert Carrington, John D. Lee and James M.
Monroe trustees.
Wednesday, 25.----I spent an agreeable time at Brother Coolidge's, in
company with Elders Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith, A. M. Lyman, John
Taylor and their ladies. The band was in attendance. We partook of a
substantial dinner; after which I made a few remarks expressive of my good
feelings and love to my brethren. I remarked that the Lord would never
suffer us to overcome our enemies while we cherished feelings of revenge,
when we prevailed over our enemies it must be from a sense of duty and not
revenge.
Friday, 27.----I went to the Trustee's Office.
Evening, there was a meeting in the Seventies' Hall of the city
council, the high council and leading authorities of the church.
Governor Ford's special message to the legislature was read. It was a
very meager attempt to excuse himself from participation in the
assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, being full of misrepresentations,
exaggerations and contemptible falsehoods.
Brother A. W. Babbitt made a report of his proceedings in
Springfield.
Sunday, 29.----I published the following:
`Brother Taylor on Church Periodicals.---The question is asked in The
New York Prophet: Why is it that there is no more interest manifested
among the elders in enlisting support or subscriptions for our
periodicals? For one I will answer the question. While I have been
preaching abroad from place to place, the question being asked of me so
many times by the saints, `Why do not my papers come? I subscribed and
sent the money long ago and have received but two or three numbers.' My
reply has been, `it seems the post office department is very uncertain.'
Realizing the very few that have been received by our brethren
abroad, in proportion to the many that have been mailed at our
establishment, my heart has fainted, and I have not asked men to pay their
money fearing they would never receive their papers.'"
CHAPTER XXVI
THE GREAT CONFERENCE OF THE SEVENTIES AT NAUVOO---ORGANIZATION
OF NEW QUORUMS--DEDICATION OF THE SEVENTIES' HALL--NOTABLE DISCOURSES
--DOCTRINAL INSTRUCTIONS BY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG ON
PRIESTHOOD--THE TWELVE-- THE SEVENTY--AND THE BISHOPRIC
"Monday, December 30, 1844.----The following is extracted from the
Times and Seasons, Vol. vi, p. 794:----
DEDICATION OF THE SEVENTIES' HALL (Five Days, Dec. 26-30, 1844. A
Memorable Conference) `Thursday, December 26, A. D. 1844.----The services
commenced under the direction of President Joseph Young [the Senior
President of the First Quorum of the Seventy], who organized the meeting
in the following order:
The stand was occupied by the Seven Presiding Presidents of the
Seventy, and the Twelve or as many of them as were present. The senior
president of each quorum was seated on the right, the choir of singers on
the left, and the brass band in front. The second and third quorums in
order, with their families, occupied and other seats for the day. Each day
afforded a new congregation, that all the seventies, with their families,
might in turn, participate in the privilege of the dedication, according
to their respective quorums, there being fifteen quorums whose claims were
equal, two of which convened in the hall each day, beginning with the
second and third [quorums].
The excellent melody of the choir and band, mingling with the devout
aspirations of a congregation of all saints, gave the commencement of
their services an air of interest, felicity and glory, at once feeling,
touching, pathetic, grand, sublime!
A hymn, composed by Elder W. W. Phelps, for the dedication, entitled
`A Voice from the Prophet: Come to Me', was sung:
A VOICE FROM THE PROPHET `COME TO ME' (By W. W. Phelps, to the
Tune---`Indian Hunter')
`Come to me, will ye come to the saints that have died--- To the next
better world, where the righteous reside; Where the angels and spirits in
harmony be. In the joys of a vast Paradise? Come to me.
Come to me where the truth and the virtues prevail; Where the union
is one, and the years never fail; Where the heart can't conceive, nor the
natural eye see, What the Lord has prepar'd for the just: Come to me.
Come to me where there is no destruction or war; Neither tyrants, nor
mobbers, or nations ajar; Where the system is perfect, and happiness free,
And the life is eternal with God: Come to me.
Come to me, will ye come to the mansions above Where the bliss and
the knowledge, the light, and the love, And the glory of God, do eternally
be? Death, the wages of sin, is not here: Come to me.
Come to me, here are Adam and Eve at the head Of a multitude
quicken'd and rais'd from the dead: Here's the knowledge that was, or that
is, or will be--- In the gen'ral assembly of worlds: Come to me.
Come to me; here's the myst'ry that man hath not seen; Here's our
Father in heaven, and Mother, the Queen, Here are worlds that have been,
and the worlds yet to be, Here's eternity,---endless; amen: Come to me.
Come to me all ye faithful and blest of Nauvoo: Come ye Twelve, and
ye High Priests, and Seventies, too; Come ye Elders, and all of the great
company;--- When you've finish'd your work on the earth: Come to me,
Come to me; here's the future, the present and past: Here is Alpha,
Omega, the first and the last; Here's the fountain, the `river of life',
and the Tree; Here's your Prophet and Seer, Joseph Smith: Come to me.'
The dedication prayer by President Brigham Young was in substance as
follows:
PRAYER: A SUPPLICATION TO THE THRONE OF GRACE `Thou God who dwellest
in the midst of thine own kingdoms, and doeth thy pleasure in the midst of
the same. We realize that we are thy children, although we have long
wandered from thee. Yet we feel that it is thy good pleasure to bless us,
when we come unto thee with hearts of humility. Therefore we desire to
present ourselves before thee as dutiful children to an earthly parent,
knowing that we are thine and ask thee for those things we need. We feel,
our Father, that we are in a world of darkness, and trouble, and death,
where we cannot behold thy glory; yet we come unto thee in the name of
Jesus Christ, thy Son, and ask thee to forgive our sins and past offenses.
Fill us with thy Spirit, and accept our praise, while we dedicate
ourselves unto thee, and as we have approximated to behold this beautiful
morning, the day in which begins a new year, do thou, our heavenly Father,
look down in compassion upon us, the creatures of thy care and protection,
who dwell upon thy footstool. Increase our knowledge, wisdom, and
understanding, that we, thy servants, may be enabled to administer
salvation to thy people, even as thou hast committed a dispensation of the
same unto us; and while we call on thy name we desire union in thy
presence, our Father, to dedicate unto thee this hall, the ground upon
which it stands, and all things that appertain unto it. We ask thee to let
thy blessing rest upon thy servant Edward Hunter, our beloved brother, who
has donated to us the ground upon which this sacred edifice has been
erected. We pray thee to enrich him and his family, not only with the good
things of this world, but with the riches of eternity also. We ask thee,
our Father, to accept the dedication of our hearts this morning, and may
we feel the prelude of that power and authority with which thy servants
shall be clothed, when they shall go forth and open the door of salvation
to the nations and kingdoms of the earth; even thy servants, the
seventies, upon whom the burden of thy kingdom does rest, and to whom the
keys of the same shall be committed from time to time. We now dedicate
this hall unto thee, our Father, and ask thee in the name of thy Son Jesus
Christ, to sanctify it and make it holy, and may no foul spirit be
suffered to enter it, but may it be filled with thy Spirit that it may be
called the gate of heaven, and may all who enter within its doors be made
to feel thy love and power. We ask thee to pour out thy Spirit upon the
Presidency of the Seventies; wilt thou endow them with knowledge and
understanding that they may be enabled to instruct thy servants over whom
they are called to preside; and do thou let the same blessings flow freely
upon each quorum, that all thy servants may be filled with thy Spirit. and
become mighty men before thee that they may go forth and gather the pure
in heart, Zion redeemed and Jerusalem rebuilt. Help us O Lord to separate
ourselves from all iniquity, that evildoers may not exist in our midst,
but may this people become a holy people, peculiar to thyself, to show
forth thy praise in all the world. Our Father in heaven, we humbly beseech
thee to shield and protect us in this city; provide for and sustain us by
thy power. that we may be enabled to accomplish the work which thou hast
commanded us to do. Assist us to build the Temple and Nauvoo House; that
the truth and light of the everlasting gospel may shine forth from this
place, to the honor, praise and glory of thy name. Regard in mercy the
Quorum of the Twelve, at whom the arrows of the destroyer are directed.
Preserve them O Lord, by thine own omnipotent power, that they may stand
in holy places and be enabled to disseminate the knowledge of thy kingdom
to the inhabitants of the earth; wilt thou sustain us, our Father, that we
may perform and accomplish the mighty work whereunto we are called.
`We feel to lament and mourn the loss of our beloved brothers, Joseph
and Hyrum, the Prophet and Patriarch, whom thou hast suffered to be
martyred for the testimony of the truth; but we thank thee our Father,
that although they have been taken from us for the present, yet that same
spirit which animated their bosoms, the fruits of which is peace and
charity, still remains amongst thy people. We now commit ourselves into
thy care, and ask thee to guide and control us by the council of heaven,
through all the shifting and various scenes of mortality, that the numbers
of our days may be filled up in usefulness, and we be prepared for that
exalted station and rest that remains for the people of God, and the
honor, praise, and glory of our salvation, we will ascribe unto thee; for
thine is the kingdom, power and glory, worlds without end: Amen.'
A hymn composed by Elder John Taylor for the dedication of the
Seventies' Hall and dedicated to President Brigham Young, was sung by
Elder John Kay, assisted by the band, entitled `The Seer'.
THE SEER `The Seer;---the Seer;---Joseph the Seer--- I'll sing of the
Prophet ever dear, His equal now cannot be found,--- By searching the wide
world around.
With Gods he soared in the realms of day; And men he taught the
heavenly way. 'Mid the foaming billows of angry strife--- He stood at the
helm of the ship of life. The earthly Seer; the heavenly Seer, I love to
dwell on his mem'ry dear;--- The chosen of God, and the friend of men, He
brought the priesthood back again, He gazed on the past, on the present
too;--- And ope'd the heavenly world to view.
Of noble seed---of heavenly birth, He came to bless the sons of
earth; With keys by the Almighty given, He opened the full rich stores of
heaven, O'er the world that was wrapt in sable night Like the sun he
spread his golden light. He strove,----O, how he strove to stay, The
stream of crime in its reckless way--- He urged the wayward to reclaim;
With a mighty mind, and a noble aim.
The saints;---the saints; his only pride, For them he lived, for them
he died! Their joys were his;---their sorrows too;--- He lov'd the
saints;---he lov'd Nauvoo. Unchanged in death, with a Savior's love He
pleads their cause, in the courts above, The Seer;---the Seer----Joseph
the Seer! O, how I love his memory dear, The just and wise, the pure and
free, A father he was, and is to me. Let fiends now rage in their dark
hour; No matter, he is beyond their power.
He's free;---he's free;---the Prophet's free! He is where he will
ever be, Beyond the reach of mobs and strife, He rests unharm'd in endless
life. His home's in the sky;---he dwells with the Gods Far from the
furious rage of mobs. He died; he died---for those he lov'd He
reigns;---he reigns in the realms above,
He waits with the just who have gone before, To welcome the saints to
Zion's shore; Shout, shout ye saints---this boon is given, We'll meet our
martyr'd Seer in heaven.'
REMARKS OF ELDER HEBER C. KIMBALL Elder Heber C. Kimball addressed
the congregation in plain though impressive language, and in his usual
philanthropic manner, used a chain as a figure to illustrate the principle
of gradation, while in pursuit of celestial enjoyment in worlds to come.
ELDER GEORGE A. SMITH'S DISCOURSE AND ADMONITION ON UNION Elder
George A. Smith offered some very appropriate remarks relative to union.
He referred to the Zion Camp, and their expedition to Missouri, and after
giving an interesting account on that subject, concluded with an
exhortation to union, firmness, and perseverance. He said that if we were
of one heart and mind, we might be as the angels are. Perfect union and
harmony exist among them. Hence their concert of action, and consequently
their influence and power with God; and upon the same principle [continued
he] we could make a heaven wherever in the dispensation of Providence, we
might be placed, possessing this principle, consonant with the honors,
glory and immortality of angels.
At 12 o'clock, a recess of one hour was given each day. At 1 o'clock
the house was called to order by President Joseph Young.
DISCOURSE OF ELDER ORSON HYDE ON UNION---AN ILLUSTRATION Elder Orson
Hyde took the stand, and continued the same subject, [unity of spirit and
action] , and introduced for a comparison the circumstance of the Assyrian
king, who gave his son a bundle of arrows bound in a quiver, and commanded
him to break them, which he in vain attempted to do while they were firmly
bound together; but when they were unbound and separated, the object was
easily effected. This circumstance he likened to this people, and said
that if we were united we would be able to stand against all the fiery
darts that could be hurled upon us by the adversary of our salvation. Some
having a knowledge of this fact, have used every effort to divide this
people, in order to accomplish their wicked designs. Some few have been
led to the north, others to the west, and some to the east. Those who have
separated may be broken; but those who remain together firmly united can
never be broken.
After speaking of authorities in the church or kingdom of God, he
observed that `Apostles in the primitive age of Christianity were first
made witnesses to all the nations of the earth. They were afterwards made
judges of that same people. Hence the saying of the Apostles, `know ye not
that the saints shall judge the world?' that is, that generation or people
to whom they were sent as witnesses. (See I Cor. vi:2,3). Indeed they were
competent to sit in judgment upon them, having had an experimental
knowledge of their course of conduct and barbarous treatment towards the
servants of God that were sent to establish peace among them. Many of whom
they did not only reject, but tortured and slew them in a cruel manner.
This was the fate of the Prophets and Apostles who vainly attempted to
restore them from their wickedness, assuring them, to use the language of
the scripture: `As you mete out to others, so shall it be measured to you
again.'
`The declaration of John while on the Isle of Patmos, through the
Spirit of God, declaring things which would come to pass, says: Give her
double for all her sins. The reason is obvious. The debt was of a long
standing; she had exercised unceasing tyranny over the servants of God,
and refused them justice and mercy. Therefore as they meted out, double
measure shall be given them in return. I have no doubt,' said he, `but the
old scribes, and pharisees, after scourging the saints in the most horrid
manner, and causing many to seal their testimony with their blood, would
go into the Temple with all the sanctity imaginable and ask God to forgive
their sins; when in reality he would have nothing to do with the matter,
until they had first obtained forgiveness from those whom they had
injured, by making ample satisfaction to them. For proof of this fact just
examine the declaration of Jesus to the Apostles: Whose soever sins ye
remit on earth, shall be remitted in heaven. And if they were retained on
earth they were to be retained in heaven also.
`Neither can this generation get forgiveness from God, for the great
injuries that they have done us as a people, without first rendering
perfect satisfaction to us whom they have injured, The elders of this
church have been swift witnesses to Missouri, and all the world. Hence in
vain may they plead to have their sins remitted until the proper steps are
taken.
`Our Prophet has been slain, and the burden of the kingdom has fallen
upon us (the Twelve) and our lives are sought after; but while the angel
that administers to man is still in attendance, his life is protected, for
the guardian is stronger than death; but when he is withdrawn humanity is
easily overcome. Hence it was with the Son of God while upon the cross,
that even he, the Savior of the world, could but exclaim: My God, my God,
why hast thou forsaken me! Referring to the protecting angel whom the Lord
had called away, leaving Jesus in the arms of death; that he might be
taken away from this world of misery and pain to the mansions of mod,
where he should turn and rule the nations with a rod of iron [i. e. the
law, or word of God]. For proof of my assertion I have only to call upon
the same individual who exclaimed on the cross; My God why hast thou taken
away my protecting angel.
`At the time of his arrest he commanded Peter to put up his sword and
gave him to understand that if it were the will of God that he should not
drink of the bitter cup (death) that he could call on his Father for ten
legions of angels who would eagerly fly to his deliverance. But had he
been delivered from the cross, how could the scriptures haVe been
fulfilled? * * *
`Another word respecting the arrows, which by the Spirit of God was
made manifest to the last summer. There were certain persons who
endeavored to divide and draw away the saints form this place, by telling
them in secret councils: I have the wink from the Twelve; their minds are
to sanction our going to build up, etc. I have got my work laid out by
revelation; but you must not say a word to them (the Twelve) about this
matter, for if you do you will not get any satisfaction, they will
disclaim in public any knowledge of such a move; but I understand them;
all is right; and thus hold them in ignorance; also, bind them by solemn
oath, not to disclose the matter to any human being, not even to their
wives, under the penalty of death. Through hypocrisy and false statements,
a few, and but a few, have been deceived and torn from the bundle of
arrows by those who have led off from this place. This is an aspiring
spirit and is from the devil, and every spirit that refuses to make
manifest, is from Lucifer, the prince of darkness, Now let the saints,
from this time forth be guarded against all such secrets, councils or
confirmations.'
ELDER AMASA M. LYMAN'S DISCOURSE Elder Amasa M. Lyman expressed his
gratitude to
God for the favorable circumstances under which we were placed at
present. Said he `when we contemplate the exalted station and high calling
of this august body of elders, we can but associate it with their future
destiny. They, as a people are only forming a character for heaven and
immortal happiness. This certainly should stimulate each man of you to
action, and remove every drowsy, careless, idle feeling from their minds,
while in each heart the most lively sensations of joy should spring up. He
advised them to embrace every opportunity afforded them to improve their
minds and obtain useful knowledge. Just take the saints out of the world,
said he, and soon destruction would sweep the land, as was the fact with
Sodom and Gomorrah.
In speaking of the Seventies' Library and Institute Association, he
remarked that the seventies were designed to be messengers to every land
and kingdom under heaven, and consequently they will have ample
opportunities to gather many antiquities, with various books, charts,
etc., to deposit in the library for the advancement of art and science,
which, with just principles, will go heart and hand unto perfection, being
built upon truth, the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus
Christ the Chief Corner Stone, which shall sound out from this voluminous
institute, and with its benign influence organize and harmonize the vast
extent of the world.
Friday, December 27.-----Fourth and fifth quorums met. Prayer by
Elder George A. Smith.
The order of the meeting was explained by President Joseph Young.
HEBER C. KIMBALL'S ADDRESS Elder Heber C. Kimball then delivered a
short address upon the authorities of the kingdom of God, and in passing
on, he set forth the order as to endowment, and informed the saints that
every man and woman must stand in his proper place and station, being
subject to the powers that be, in order to be exalted to glory, honor, and
immortality in the eternal world, `It is even so in the resurrection from
the dead, as St. Paul informs us that Christ is the first fruits of the
resurrection from the dead in the primitive age, and so will Joseph Smith
be in this dispensation. Joseph will be the first man who will rise from
the dead, and then all men according to their proper order.
`I will tell the seventies and everybody else, if you cannot and will
not submit to the authorities that God has placed in his church over you,
you had better back out now, and not attempt to proceed further; if you
are ever saved it will be by obedience to the order of God's kingdom here
on the earth, and this order is in subordination to that order which is in
the heavens. According to the important station the seventies are called
to fill in this last dispensation, they should be careful to walk
uprightly and act justly, shunning every appearance of evil and never
condescend to do anything mean.'
Adjourned one hour.
Met pursuant to adjournment.
ELDER JOHN TAYLOR'S DISCOURSE---RELATIONSHIP OF THE CHURCH TO GOD
Elder John Taylor took the stand and proceeded to lay before us the pure
principles of life and salvation, reminding us that we were the people
that the Lord had chosen and set apart to accomplish the great and mighty
work of the last days, which was spoken of by the prophets of old. `No
other people,' said he, `can possibly do this work, for unto us the keys
of this last dispensation with the power of the priesthood is given;
consequently there is no people under the whole heaven that sustain the
same relationship with God, as we do. What knowledge have the world of
God's laws or his ways? They don't know enough in reality to save a
mosquito.
`I do not mean to say that there is no learning in the world, for I
am aware of the fact that there is far more of what the world calls wisdom
in the midst of the inhabitants of the earth than can be found here; but a
learned fool is no better than an illiterate one, if the Apostle Paul's
judgment can be admitted as proof. He told the people of his day that the
wisdom of this world was foolishness with God. When I ask what knowledge
the world has of God or his government, I mean to be understood as
speaking of that knowledge that comes from God, communicated to us through
the channel of revelation, for without it we know nothing correctly, no
more than the brute beasts who are led by the instinct of nature.
Consequently, brethren, when you go to declare the plain truth of the
kingdom of God, the gospel of Jesus Christ, you should never shrink from
your calling, nor succumb to the learned because of the advantage they
have over you by reason of literary attainments, for God is with you, and
will give you a mouth and wisdom by which you shall be delivered from the
strong arm of violence.
`Remember the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong;
but to those who trust in the Lord. When the Twelve were called to bear
the gospel of this kingdom to the inhabitants of Europe, there were not
many wise among them, speaking after the manner of men; yet we believed
him faithful who had chosen us, and as little children we trusted in him
for wisdom and understanding to do his will; for his will was our
pleasure, and in the short space of two years, about two thousand souls
were given to us in the ministry. I speak of these things that you may
know in whom to put your trust and confidence; for should you desire
self-esteem, and take the honor to yourselves, you soon would sink to
shame and disgrace. You are the heralds of salvation, and through your
faithfulness, obedience and perseverance, you may be exalted to kings and
priests unto God in the eternal worlds.
`Some of you may be called to go to foreign lands to administer
salvation to nations that are to you unknown. The redemption of your
deceased relatives are also required at your hands. Hence you discover
your relationship with God and the responsibility under which you are
acting. Be faithful in him who has called you, and he will deliver you
from every snare, pit, and temptation that awaits you. I would rather
trust in God for bread, than to trust in the princes of this world. I
speak of these things for your interest; then let your hearts be
comforted. When we (the Twelve) left this place, on our mission to
England, a journey of near five thousand miles to be accomplished without
a penny in our pockets, our only resource was to trust in the Disposer of
all events to supply our returning wants. And our prayers were heard and
answered according to the desires of our hearts.
`When you go forth, lift up your heads like kings and trust in the
name of Israel's God; for the very hairs of your head are numbered and
will not fall to the ground without notice. Remembering at all times to
uphold each other by the prayer and power of faith, and God will bless you
and your labors.'
The following prayer was made by President Joseph Young on the fourth
day of the dedication.
PRAYER OF PRESIDENT JOSEPH YOUNG---SECOND PRAYER OF DEDICATION `O
God, our heavenly Father, we humbly pray thee in the name of Jesus Christ,
thy Son, to bless us with the remission of all our sins and vanities; for
we are subject to follies and vanities. But we thank thee, our Father,
that thou hast prepared a way and provided means whereby we map be enabled
to overcome, and elude the grasp of the destroyer. We ask thee, our
Father, to guide us by the Spirit, that we may feel thy love shed abroad
in our hearts, and fully appreciate every blessing that flows from thy
liberal hands. As thou hast seen fit to break the silence of heaven, and
again communicated thy will to the sons of men that dwell upon the earth,
we ask thee to indict our petitions as we present ourselves in thy
presence to dedicate this hall, for we now dedicate it and ourselves unto
thee, and ask thee to let a special blessing rest upon him who has
bequeathed to us the ground upon which this hall now stands. We remember
before thee, our Father, the Building Committee, who were appointed to
build the Temple. Let their hands be strengthened to carry on the work and
grant that the house may be finished according to thy commandments unto
thy people, that thy servants may receive their endowments and be clothed
upon with power and authority, to carry thy word to the scattered servants
of thy people. Let the Council of the Twelve come in remembrance before
thee. Bless them, O Lord, with all that pertains to them. Also the quorums
of the seventies, who have built this hall, not particularly by thy
commandment, but in honor of thy name. Bless them and their families when
they shall go to the islands of the sea, to preach the acceptable year of
the Lord, and declare the truth of heaven, the gospel of the Son of God.
Let them become mighty men in pulling down the strongholds of satan, and
bursting the prison doors of darkness, and spread the light of the
everlasting gospel to earth's remotest bounds. Bless the poor who are
destitute; open the hearts of the rich, so that the principle of sympathy
and charity may predominate and reign in their bosoms, that they may
impart of their substance to feed the poor. Finally our Father, we ask
thee to guide the destinies of this meeting to thy praise, for thine is
the kingdom. power and glory, worlds without end: Amen.'
REMARKS OF ELDER JOHN E. PAGE, ONE OF THE TWELVE Elder John E. Page
having arrived here a short time previous with his family from Pittsburgh,
being present, was requested to render an account of his stewardship,
which he cheerfully assented to.
He arose and proceeded in a concise manner and gave a very
interesting narrative of the events connected with his mission during his
absence from this city. He also made many pertinent remarks upon the
principles of the kingdom of God, and the organization of the same. He
then added that the seventies were in the hands of God as a lever, by
which he would turn the world upside down and establish his covenant with
the inhabitants of every land; that light and truth should prevail where
the powers of darkness, superstition and error had long swayed universal
dominion; and finally concluded by assuring the saints that he was one
with them, and gave his testimony to the present organization of the
church in the most solemn manner, and gave place.
THE GREAT DISCOURSE OF ELDER ORSON PRATT Monday, December
30.----Elder Orson Pratt took the stand and after many appropriate remarks
upon the principle of union, he made a quotation from the Book of Mormon:
Adam fell that man might be----men are that they might have joy', and
reasoned upon the correctness of the saying. He said that `if Adam had not
partaken of the fruit of the tree of life, he never could have obeyed the
commandment enjoined upon him and the woman, which was to multiply and
replenish the earth; (as will appear in the sequel) neither could he have
appreciated the blessings of paradise without an experience of the
opposite.
`The Apostle Paul plainly declared that the man was not in the
transgression, but the woman; hence we infer that Adam was acquainted of
the penalty annexed to the law of God, and with his future destiny, before
he partook of the fruit. It might be said that out of two evils the man
upon reflection chose the least. The first was the seduction of the woman,
by the tempter, which evil would terminate in the banishment of the woman
from the garden of paradise, it being one of the penalties annexed to the
law for the offense already committed, Adam knowing this fact chose to
suffer the penalty of the law with the woman, rather than to be deprived
of her society; consequently he followed her into the transgression, as
St. Paul remarks. The creature (Adam) was made subject to sin, not
willingly; but by reason of him who has subjected the same in hope. The
hope spoken of here, by Paul, must allude to the redemption of the woman
and her posterity from the fall to immortality and eternal life.
`From this last quotation of the Apostle, we have reason to believe
that Adam was encouraged to follow the woman into the transgression, and
to people the earth. Whether Adam understood the law of redemption prior
to the fall or not, I shall not decide; but shall be contented to submit
the circumstance to your consideration. A word to the wise is sufficient.'
It was designed at the commencement to have continued each discourse
throughout the week; but as that would occupy entirely too much space,
will conclude with these brief sketch, ready given. Truly this was a time
and season of rejoicing with the saints. Peace and harmony, brotherly
love, kindness, and charity prevails throughout.
The remembrance of this glorious jubilee will never be erased from
the minds of those who were participants. Each family was provided with
fruits, nuts and every desert that heart could wish. Well might it be said
that the saints enjoyed a feast of fat things. JOHN D. LEE, Clerk.'
CHURCH PUBLICATIONS The following works were published during the
year 1844:
Times and Seasons, semi-monthly, twenty-three numbers, octavo,
containing three hundred and sixty-seven pages.
Nauvoo Neighbor, folio, weekly.
Both of these papers were published at Nauvoo, John Taylor, editor.
The Times and Seasons devoted principally to the publication of the faith
and history of the church. The Nauvoo Neighbor included the principal
items of news, general intelligence and advertisements.
Latter-day Saints Millennial Star, octavo 16 pp. monthly, Liverpool,
England; Thomas Ward editor."
CHAPTER XXVII
CAMPAIGN AGAINST WICKEDNESS BOTH BY THE CHURCH AUTHORITIES AND THE
NAUVOO CITY COUNCIL----VILLAINY OF NAUVOO'S ENEMIES
"Wednesday, January 1, 1845.----Accompanied by Elder Heber C. Kimball
I went to Bishop David Evans' ward south of Nauvoo City, and solemnized a
marriage.
The following was written in council: A WORD TO THE CHURCHES ABROAD
FROM THE TWELVE (First Greeting of 1845) `The Twelve. feeling a great
anxiety for the unity and prosperity of the whole church, and, more
especially, for the benefit of the branches of the church abroad in the
world, would, after mature deliberation, and as a matter of counsel,
(approving of the course, management, and matter of the Times and Seasons
and Nauvoo Neighbor), recommend that suitable pains and exertions be taken
by both elders and members, to obtain these papers from Nauvoo. A unity of
effort, to circulate these papers, not only among the saints, but among
the people at large, will greatly facilitate the labors of the traveling
elders, while it disseminates correct principles, sanctioned by the
highest authorities in the church, and at the same time, opens a channel
of communication, best calculated to win the good feelings of the
community, while the affections, and zeal of the brethren, are harmonized,
by the same doctrines, the same rules; and the same laudable purposes.
The kingdoms of the world continue and extend by division, but the
saints can only expect to prevail by wisdom and counsel; we therefore, in
connection with the union which prevails among the saints here, and for
the prosperity of the branches abroad, and as a reward of merit to the
honorable standing of the Times and Seasons and Nauvoo Neighbor, and for
their unyielding energies in the cause of truth `through good and through
evil report', bespeak for them a liberal subscription and ready
remittance. May light and liberality be equal.
We have just entered upon the threshold of a new year, and may our
Father in heaven, have so much respect to his saints and people, as to
bless the pure in heart, pure in purpose, and coworkers for the redemption
of man, until the light from Zion extends round the globe and `all Israel
shall be saved'; and then we can rejoice and say: it was good for us that
we followed the counsel of the Lord.
Brethren, we greet you with peace, and may the Lord bless you with
righteousness.
Done in council, this first day of January, 1845. [Signed] BRIGHAM
YOUNG, President.'
Elder Orson Hyde wrote an article which was published in the Times
and Seasons advising the saints in the east to beware of land speculators
professing to be Latter-day Saints, who were trying to sell lands in
Illinois for lands and other property in the east.
ELDER ORSON HYDE'S LETTER OF CAUTION: BEWARE OF DECEPTION! `Tidings
have just reached us here [in Nauvoo] that certain men in the eastern
countries, Ohio and other places, professing to be Latter- day Saints, are
very busy in selling Illinois lands, and exchanging them for real estate
and other property in the east. I would inform all the saints everywhere,
that this operation is a field for greater and more extensive fraud than
any other with which I am acquainted.
You may give some irresponsible, worthless creature a clear title to
your homes in the east, with the expectation of finding good land here in
exchange with a good title, etc., etc. But when you come, you may find
your land in a swamp, in the middle of an extensive prairie, ten or
fifteen miles from any timber. I will venture to give it as my opinion
that those miserable speculators are knaves and villains; professing to be
saints, and trying to help the church and build up the cause, when they
have no license from the authorities of the church here.
I say again, beware of those `wolves in sheep's clothing'. Whenever
any such operation is deemed beneficial to the saints by those who know
and understand these things, some competent responsible person will be
sent, duly authorized with documents from under the hands of the Twelve
that reside in this city. Otherwise you may find to your sorrow that you
will have to pay for your lands twice over before you get good titles. I
therefore warn you, as a watchman of your interests, to hold on upon your
homes until you know certainly what you are doing. [Signed] ORSON HYDE.'
In company with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, George A.
Smith, Willard Richards and Amasa
M. Lyman. I spent the afternoon and evening, with our wives, at Hiram
Kimball's; had a pleasant time: the propriety of settling a new country
was discussed.
Mr. Jacob B. Backenstos delivered a speech in the house of
representatiVes, Springfield, against the senate bill for the
unconditional repeal of the Nauvoo Charter, wherein he ably set forth the
injuries and persecutions suffered by the citizens of Nauvoo.
Elder Parley P. Pratt, having been appointed to the presidency of the
eastern churches' published a proclamation to the saints in his presidency
explaining the duties of his calling and the several duties of the
officers and members under his special charge.
Thursday, 2.----Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt and myself held
a council at the Tithing Office with Bishops Newel K. Whitney and George
Miller, Trustees and Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds Cahoon, Temple Committee:
the object of the council was to inspire the Temple Committee with
confidence and satisfaction.
Evening, in company with Elders Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, and
others I took supper with Dr. Willard Richards: sixteen of the brethren
and sisters who first embraced the work in Preston, England, were present.
Friday, 3.-----Elder Wilford Woodruff and accompanying missionaries
landed in Liverpool having been twenty-five days at sea.
Saturday, 4.----A conference was held in Hartford, Connecticut, at
which thirty-six members were represented including six officers. Elder M.
Sirrine presided.
Evening, I met with the city police at the Seventies' Hall and gave
them suitable instructions.
DISCOURSES OF ELDERS YOUNG AND KIMBALL AGAINST WICKEDNESS Sunday,
5.----I went to the stand and addressed the saints on the necessity of
having more order and putting down iniquity, and exhorted the brethren to
rise up en masse, and put down the thieving, swearing, gambling,
bogus-making, retailing spirituous liquors, bad houses, and all
abominations practiced in our midst by our enemies, who, after they could
not live among us any longer would go out to the world and publish that
these things were practiced by us. Severely rebuked the civil authorities
of the city for their want of energy in the discharge of their duty, and
censured parents and guardians for not keeping their children from
prowling round the streets at night; and remarked that if we did not as a
people uproot such things, they would uproot us, and we would have to
leave before we had done the things the Lord had commanded us to do. Elder
Kimball followed me, treating on the same subject: a large
congregation----pleasant day.
Tuesday, 7.----I met in council with my brethren of the Twelve. The
subject of sending a company to California was further discussed; also the
propriety of sending to the branches of the church abroad for teams to
help the expedition.
Wednesday, 8.--I attended a meeting which was got up by my brother,
Joseph Young, of all our relatives and connections. Elder Phineas Richards
presided, Elder Phineas Richards, John Haven, myself, Joseph Young, Heber
C. Kimball, John Taylor, John Smith and Lucy Smith, mother of the Prophet,
severally addressed the meeting.
Evening, I met with the Twelve, bishops, high council, and city
officials in relation to the election of city present declined accepting
any nomination.
The police held a meeting this afternoon; the Twelve and Father John
Smith attended and partook of dinner with them: it was an agreeable and
interesting time.
Friday, 10.----The Twelve, the Temple Committee, the surveyors
(Sherwood and Ripley) and Bishop Whitney, Trustee, met with the Committee
of the Nauvoo Manufacturing Association respecting erecting the
contemplated dam in the Mississippi.
The lesser priesthood met at the Music Hall. Bishop N. K. Whitney
presided. He stated the object of the meeting was to fill up the quorums
in order that the saints might be visited by the lesser priesthood; he
recommended that the bishop establish in their respective wards the
manufacturing of palm leaf and straw hats, willow baskets and other
business that children are capable of learning, that they may be raised to
industrious habits; he further stated his determination to have a feast
prepared for the poor that their hearts might be made to rejoice. Bishops
Edward Hunter, Isaac Higbee and others made some very interesting remarks.
Bishop Whitney gave the lesser priesthood a faithful charge in relation to
ferreting out iniquity. Four priests and ten teachers were ordained.
Saturday, 11.----City council met and transacted much business.
Passed an ordinance authorizing and licensing Brigham Young to run a ferry
across the Mississippi at Nauvoo in place of Joseph Smith, martyred.
With Elders Taylor, Richards and Phelps, I spent the evening writing
an epistle to the churches on the gathering.
Sunday, 12.----A general meeting of the seventies convened at their
hall; I attended and informed them that the Twelve designed to select a
number of experienced elders from among the quorums to take short missions
through this state and Iowa, for the purpose of frustrating the designs of
wicked and ungodly men, who are endeavoring to poison the minds of the
people by misrepresenting us and circulating base and false reports about
us as a people. There were a great many people who knew nothing about the
true character of this church, From false reports many are led to suppose
that we are all a set of thieves, blacklegs and bogus-makers, but we will
undeceive them, that is, the honest in heart, who will listen to the
elders sent among them. One hundred brethren were ordained into the
seventies. The fifteenth and sixteenth quorums were organized.
IMPORTANT DISCOURSES BY ELDERS HEBER C. KIMBALL AND ORSON PRATT Elder
Heber C. Kimball preached to the saints in the Concert Hall on the subject
of increase and expansion. Elder Orson Pratt advanced an idea pertaining
to the magnitude of the planetary system, illustrative of the enlargement
of the saints.
Elder Kimball and I attended the high priests' quorum and selected
fifty of the members to go on missions till April 1st in the surrounding
counties.
Evening, attended prayer meeting.
Monday, 13.----The city council met in Brother W. Richards' office,
and adopted the following Preamble and Resolutions:
THE VOICE OF NAUVOO (Proceedings of the City Council) PREAMBLE `It is
with feelings of deep and inexpressible regret that we learn that the
inhabitants of various parts of this state are seeking to accumulate all
the real and supposed crimes of the whole community [of Nauvoo] for the
secret or ostensible purpose of raising a tide of influence against the
Mormon community that shall sweep them into irrecoverable ruin. This
course of conduct, originating with our mortal enemies and gathering in
its wake, other men that would revolt at the idea of lending a hand to
oppress a long abused people that are struggling against foes within and
foes without; [which] is at the present almost insupportable to our
feelings. We have scarcely laid by our mourning weeds for murdered men,
whom we promptly surrendered up to the state of Illinois for an equitable
trial---And now we see in embryo another campaign to spill yet more blood
and effect an utter extermination and massacre. We sought to rid our city
of counterfeiters and blacklegs; these together with our foes without and
within, had established a printing press of unparalleled rancor and
malignity. But our efforts to obtain freedom from such vicious monsters
cost us much tribulation and precious blood.
The impunity thus far granted the murderers by the senate and other
authorities of the state of Illinois, has emboldened them and their
apologists to set on foot a series of other exciting causes that they hope
will either destroy this community, or prevent their criminals from being
brought to punishment. We have not so much fear that our enemies will
succeed in their fiendish designs against us, as we have that the peace
and good order of the people of this state will be disturbed, and fearful
anarchy and bloody misrule will ensue among those who listen to and
countenance the fell designs of those who are stealing from quiet citizens
of the state and palming upon them a spurious and false currency, and
charging to the Mormons their own crimes. If they shall succeed, the
citizens will be involved in continual larcenies, and neighborhood broils,
and crimes, the end of which cannot now be foreseen. We deprecate such
evils and calamities because we desire the good of all mankind; as the
gratuitous labors of the greater portion of our citizens in spreading
truth throughout the world under much poverty and suffering, abundantly
prove.
As for us, our course is fixed, and while we are peaceable and loyal
to the Constitution and laws of our country, and are ever willing to join
hands with the honest, virtuous, and patriotic in suppressing crime and
punishing criminals, we will leave our enemies to judge, whether it would
not be better to make Nauvoo one universal burying ground, before we
suffer ourselves to be driven from our hard-earned and lawful homes, by
such high-handed oppression, and it may yet become a question to be
decided by the community, whether the Mormons will, after having witnessed
their best men murdered without redress, quietly and patiently, suffer
their enemies to wrench from them the last shreds of their Constitutional
rights; and whether they will not make their city one great sepulchre,
rather than be the humble devotees at the shrine of mobocracy. But for the
satisfaction of all concerned, we reiterate in the following resolutions,
sentiments that we have always expressed in all places as occasion
demanded:
Resolved: That the greater part of the thefts which have been
complained of, are not, in our opinion, true in fact, but have been
trumped up by inimical persons, in order to cover their aggressive doings,
with plausibility, and entice honest and unwary citizens to unite with
them in the same uncompromising hostility against this people.
Resolved; That we defy the world to substantiate a single instance,
where we have concealed criminals, or screened them from justice; but, on
the contrary, always have been, and now are, extremely anxious that they
should be ferreted out and brought to justice; and to this end would
esteem it a favor, that if any person should lose property, or have good
and sufficient reason to suspect any place of containing apparatus for
making bogus or counterfeit money, that such person would follow up, trace
out, and make diligent search, for all such property and apparatus, and if
they can trace it into this city, we pledge ourselves to assist them
legally, to the extent of our abilities in so laudable an undertaking.
Resolved; That it is our opinion that very many scoundrels, such as
thieves, robbers, bogus-makers, counterfeiters and murderers, have been
induced from reports published in the Warsaw Signal, to flock into this
county in order to carry on their evil practices, knowing that it would be
immediately charged upon the Mormons, and thereby they escape---and
although we think that the reports of thefts have been very much
exaggerated, yet we know from dear bought experience that such things do
exist, and further we doubt not there may be some such characters prowling
in and about our city.
Resolved; That we are extremely anxious to ferret out and bring to
justice, all such persons, if any, that are within the limits of our city,
and for this purpose we have authorized our mayor to enlarge the police,
to any number, not exceeding five hundred, and we also pledge ourselves to
double our diligence, and call upon our citizens to assist in ridding our
city and country of all such infamous characters.
Done, in council, this 13th day of January, 1845. [Signed] DANIEL
SPENCER, Mayor. W. Richards, Recorder.'
Tuesday, 14.---- MEETING OF THE CITIZENS `At a large meeting of the
citizens of Nauvoo, convened at the stand, on the 14th day of January,
1845, Daniel Spencer, mayor of the city, was called to the chair, and
James Sloan appointed secretary; and Samuel Bent, Alpheus Cutler, Charles
C. Rich, Phineas Richards, and David Fullmer, were appointed a committee,
to draft a Preamble and Resolutions, expressive of the sense of this
meeting on the proceedings of the city council, and for the action of this
meeting. The committee retired and in a short time, returned the
following, which were adopted unanimously:
PREAMBLE `Whereas, the city council of the city of Nauvoo, have
presented to this meeting, a Preamble and sundry Resolutions setting forth
the fact, that enemies to the people of this city, and as we believe,
enemies to the common welfare of the people of this state, are attempting
to get up an extensive popular excitement, prejudicial to this people and
the country at large; and whereas, said Resolutions set forth an
unqualified reprobation of all unlawful and villainous conduct whether
under the false color of Mormonism, or the real guise of mobbers,
blacklegs, bogus-makers, thieves, `wolf hunters', or murderers; therefore,
we hereby express our perfect concurrence in the said Preamble and
Resolutions.
And whereas, the Warsaw Signal, the Alton Telegraph, and the Quincy
Whig, have been, as we believe, industriously engaged in circulating
falsehood; disseminating discord, and the principles of mobocracy; and
whereas, Mormon extermination, pillage, robbery, and murder, have received
both countenance and apology in these scurrilous prints, as we believe;
and whereas, the pen of murderers, as we believe, has occupied the columns
of these papers in order to defend the cries of innocent blood that
ascends to heaven for vengeance; and whereas, a large share of the thefts
spoken of and blazed through the land, are wholly without existence when
traced out, as appears not only from the instance recorded in the
Governor's Message concerning horse stealing, but from other similar
instances, too numerous to mention; and whereas, it has been zealously
reported, that much stolen goods could be traced to Nauvoo, and that no
citizen could enter our city to search for thieves, and stolen goods,
because the thief and goods would be screened from detection by the Mormon
fraternity, and the person in search, would be in jeopardy of his life;
and whereas, thieves and counterfeiters have in some instances fled to our
city, either under he mistaken apprehension that we would screen them, or
from a malignant design to palm upon us their own crimes, and thereby draw
us under the lash of persecution; and whereas, it can be proved that
individuals, in order to swell the list of Mormon depredations, have
reported property to be stolen, which at another time they have
acknowledged, they sold the same property and received pay; and whereas,
bee yards have been robbed, the hives left at Mormon doors, to palm the
theft upon us, when the honey has been found in the houses of our enemies;
and whereas, an innumerable number of such infamous tricks have been
played upon us, by our enemies, as we believe, for the purpose of
blackening our character in the eyes of honest men; and whereas, our city
is nightly infested with a set of outlandish men, who we believe, visit us
for no good purpose, who do not appear to have any lawful business, but
rather, as we believe, are endeavoring to scatter amongst us, their bogus
and counterfeits, prostitute the virtue of the place, deposit stolen
goods, or steal from us, and by every means in their power, sow the seeds
of discord, strife, confusion, mobocracy, and murder, that in the end,
they may uproot our beautiful city and whereas, that in some instances,
when the ministers of justice have visited our city, at the dark hour of
midnight, for the purpose of making legal arrests, as they say; we believe
what is reported us that they have employed runners to steal the saddles
and bridles from their own horses, while in our city, for the purpose of
damning us in the eyes of the community.
And whereas, the chief magistrate of this state, after a second and
protracted visit to this city, and much pains taken to investigate the
charge of promiscuous stealing, reports to the legislature as follows:
`Justice, however, required me here to say, that I have investigated
the charge of promiscuous stealing, and find it to be greatly exaggerated.
I could not ascertain that there were a greater proportion of thieves in
that community, than in any other of the same number of inhabitants; and
perhaps if the city of Nauvoo, were compared with St. Louis, or any other
western city, the proportion would not be so great.'
And whereas, the printing office of our open and avowed enemy Dr.
Foster, was set on fire, in this city by himself, or by his instruction,
as we believe, to fan the flame of mobocracy, which fire was only
prevented by our vigilant police.
And whereas, we firmly believe, that our enemies in this city, have
several times attempted to fire their own buildings and have only been
prevented by the diligence of our officers---
Therefore, be it resolved, unanimously, that we will use all lawful
means in our power to assist the public to prevent stealing and
bogus-making, and bring the offenders to justice.
Resolved, that to prevent further depredations in our city, by
lawless desperadoes from abroad, we approve the raising of 500 police by
this city.
Resolved, unanimously, That we invite all honest men to watch closely
their property, and arrest all thieves; and if they shall catch a thief in
the act of stealing, challenge him to stand, and if he refuses so to do,
and flees, so far as the Mormons are concerned, we will be satisfied if
the owners of the property shall speedily send after him a writ of habeas
corpus sealed with lead to arrest his progress, but after all, should the
thief prove to be a mobocrat, alas! alas!! O what a pity!
Resolved, unanimously, That 50 delegates be sent to the surrounding
country to inform the people of the designs of our enemies now concocting
in their secret and public meetings, so that the honest part of the
community, may unite with us, to prevent stealing and secure peace.
Resolved, That these proceedings be published in the papers at
Nauvoo, with a request that other papers copy them. [Signed] DANIEL
SPENCER, Chairman. James Sloan, Secretary.'
AN EPISTLE OF THE TWELVE TO THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY
SAINTS IN ALL THE WORLD, GREETING `Beloved Brethren:--- As the purposes of
God roll forth and the work of the Lord hastens to its accomplishment, it
is necessary that we, as watchmen upon the towers of Zion, communicate
with you from time to time, and put you in possession of such information
as may be deemed necessary for your welfare, for the furtherance of the
cause of God, and for the fulfilling of these great purposes which our
heavenly Father has designed in the rolling forth of the dispensation of
the fullness of times, `spoken of by all the prophets since the world
was.'
The Temple has progressed very rapidly since the death of our beloved
Prophet and Patriarch. The diligence of those employed, and the
willingness of the saints to contribute, have brought it to a state of
forwardness, which has far exceeded our most sanguine expectations. You
have already been informed that the capitals of the columns were all on;
we have now to announce to you that by the time the spring opens we expect
that every stone will be cut to complete the Temple, and it will not take
long to lay them, when they are all prepared.
Great numbers of carpenters, masons, and other workmen are daily
engaged in this arduous undertaking, so that not only is stone being
prepared, but the sash, flooring, seats, and other things are progressing
rapidly; and it is our design, if possible, so to rush the work forward
that the building will be enclosed, and certain portions of it in that
state of forwardness, so that we shall be prepared to commence giving the
saints their endowments next fall; that the elders of Israel may be
prepared by the power and spirit of the great Jehovah, to fulfill with
dignity and honor, the great work devolving upon them to perform.
We wish to inform you brethren that the work in which we are engaged
is great and mighty, it is the work of God and we have to rush it forth
against the combined powers of earth and hell, we feel it to be an arduous
undertaking whilst you, many of you have been enjoying ease, prosperity,
and peace at home. We have had to combat mobs and to wade through blood to
fulfill the work devolving upon us, and you: we have been exerting our
energies, expended our money; and employing our time, our labor, our
influence, and means for the accomplishment of this purpose; and feeling
confident dear brethren, that you would like to share with us the labor,
as well as the glory, we make the following requests:
We wish all the young, middle aged, and able bodied men who have it
in their hearts to stretch forth this work with power, to come to Nauvoo,
prepared to stay during the summer; and to bring with them means to
sustain themselves with, and to enable us to forward this work; to bring
with them teams, cattle, sheep, gold, silver, brass, iron, oil, paints and
tools; and let those who are within market distance of Nauvoo bring with
them provisions to sustain themselves and others during their stay. And
let all the churches send all the money, cloth, and clothing, together the
raw material for manufacturing purposes; such as cotton, cotton yarn,
wool, steel iron, brass, etc., etc., as we are preparing to go into
extensive manufacturing operations, and all these things can be applied to
the furtherance of the Temple.
There was a font erected in the basement story of the Temple, for the
baptism of the dead, the healing of the sick and other purposes; this font
was made of wood, and was only intended for the present use; but it is now
removed, and as soon as the stone cutters get through with the cutting of
the stone for the walls of the Temple, they will immediately proceed to
cut the stone for and erect a font of hewn stone. This font will be of an
oval form and twelve feet in length and eight wide, with stone steps and
an iron railing; this font will stand upon twelve oxen, which will be cast
of iron or brass, or perhaps hewn stone. If of brass, polished; if of
iron, bronzed;---upon each side of the font there will be a suite of rooms
fitted up for the washings. In the recesses, on each side of the arch, on
the first story, there will be a suite of rooms or ante-chambers, lighted
with the first row of circular windows. As soon as a suitable number of
those rooms are completed we shall commence the endowment.
Brethren, inasmuch as you have long desired blessings, come up to the
help of the Lord, and help to forward the work that we are engaged in; for
we trust that these rooms will be finished by the first of December next,
so that you may enter therein and receive wisdom, knowledge,
understanding, and the power of the priesthood, which you have so long
desired; that you may be prepared to go forth to the nations of the earth
and build up the kingdom in all parts of the world; gather up Israel,
redeem Zion; rebuild Jerusalem; and fill the whole earth with the
knowledge of God.
While upon this subject we would remind the brethren of their duty in
tithing according to the laws, and commandments given through Joseph the
Prophet, it is the duty of all saints to tithe into the new and
everlasting covenant; and then one-tenth of their interest, or income,
yearly afterwards. If the brethren will attend to this strictly, and send
up the sum by agents appointed by us, whose names you will see in this
paper, then we shall hold ourselves responsible for all monies and
properties delivered to those agents that the names of the several
individuals who send their tithing by the legal agents may be entered upon
the book of the Law of the Lord; if this is not attended to strictly by
the branches of the church abroad, they may be disappointed when they find
that they have sent their means by unauthorized agents, who have not made
returns to the Trustees, and their names are not recorded as they would
have been if they had harkened to counsel. On the subject of regular
appointed agencies we would refer you to an article written by the
Trustees, Bishops Whitney and Miler, and published in the Times and
Seasons of December, 1844.
We would further say to the brethren that if there should be any of
the churches to whom these agents do not come, let them send their means
by honest men whom they may select from among themselves, and in whom they
can place confidence; but we cannot be responsible for the conduct of any
agents that we do not send, and can only give credit for that we receive.
And as the churches abroad have been much imposed upon by designing men,
without authority, we would warn them against such persons, and advise
them not to pay their funds to traveling elders and others without a
written authority from us to which shall be attached the private seal of
the Twelve and their names published as above stated. Those men that we
shall select for agents will be men of honor, men of integrity and
respectability, in whom we can confide, and who are responsible, and able,
and willing to enter into bonds for the faithful performance of their
duty. This course will prevent those many impositions which have
heretofore been practiced by villains wearing the garb of saints, and
place the churches in a situation that they can forward their tithings
with safety.
There is now in the city eight of the Twelve all in good health and
spirits; our city is progressing, and the work of the Lord is rolling
forth with unprecedented rapidity.
Thus, dear brethren, we have given you, in part, some of the measures
and calculations, which we mean to carry into effect for your salvation,
and for the furtherance of the salvation of the world. We have commenced a
new year, and, as the Lord says; `All victory and glory is brought to pass
unto you through diligence, faithfulness and prayers of faith,' so we
cannot but hope, that you will renew your exertions, your prayers, and
your tithings, for the benefit of Zion, that she may arise and shine for
the good of all people.
We cannot say everything in one short epistle, therefore, from time
to time, as the Lord puts into our hearts instructions, we shall give them
unto you: solemnly praying that you will increase your faith, double your
diligence, walk by light and obedience, and be instant in season, to do
the will of our Father in heaven:---Beware of ungodly men, who creep among
you unawares; they are clouds without water, driven about by winds, and
will finally be blown into outer darkness.
Our counsel to the traveling elders abroad is for them to return to
Nauvoo by the 6th of April, to conference or as soon as possible
afterwards, and before they leave, it will be necessary for them to ordain
good and wise men to preside over the branches during their absence.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, a veneration for the names of
the first Martyrs, first Elders, and first Prophets of the nineteenth
century, inspire your hearts, to hear counsel, to keep counsel, to
practice holiness, live the life of saints, and `die the death of the
righteous, that your last end may be like his'.
Done in council, at Nauvoo, this 14th day of January, 1845. [Signed]
BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. Willard Richards, Clerk.'
Wednesday, 15.----I went to the Temple, afterwards to the stone
quarry; Brother Albert P. Rockwood reported sixty-two hands and six teams
engaged today in the quarry.
Evening, went to the Seventies' Hall. The brethren of the Twelve, the
high council, Trustees-in-Trust, many high priests and seventies were
present. The elders appointed on missions were assigned to their
respective districts. Elder Kimball instructed the elders to be fathers
and not masters, and to be wise in their requirements of tithing from the
saints abroad. I gave some general instructions, and counseled the elders
to gather all to Nauvoo who could leave their families and especially the
young men to help complete the Temple. Heavy thunder, lightning and rain.
Thursday, 16.----I spent most of the day with Elder Kimball
correcting his history.
Friday, 17.----Mr. Joseph A. Kelting, deputy sheriff of Hancock
county published the following in the Times and Seasons (p. 775):
TO THE PUBLIC `Nauvoo, Jan. 17, 1845. As much has been said
concerning stealing and secreting property in this city, for the purpose
of giving an impression abroad that Nauvoo was a grand depot for
concealing stolen property, and that the Mormon community was concerned in
it,---I will state, that so far as my knowledge extends, concerning the
matter, I have ascertained that stolen property has been brought by way of
Nauvoo, from the country, and then crossed over the Mississippi river to
Iowa, and back into the territory some ten or twelve miles; where the
thieves have some friends to conceal stolen property.
There seems to be a connection of these friends thirty or forty miles
back into the country on this side of the river, who, with five or six in
this city, seem to have a line for running stolen property through Nauvoo
to the territory of Iowa; and I have good reason to believe that those in
the country on this side of the river, those in the city, and those in the
territory, are one clan, but they are not Mormons; nor have the Mormons
any fellowship with them,
I have taken pains to go with a person from the country, with a writ,
and have searched every house suspected, till the person was satisfied,
and till I was satisfied myself that no such property, as claimed, was in
the city.
I have good reason to believe that scoundrels stay in Nauvoo, and
when stolen property comes into the city, they are ready to pass it on to
the territory, and screen themselves under the cloak of Mormonism, in
order that the Mormons may bear the blame. If people will satisfy
themselves as I have done, they may find a depot in the regions of Iowa,
containing the greater part of the property charged to the Mormons.
I would state further, that the Mormons had no agency in the searches
I made, but that I made them, at the instance of men from the country, and
that I spent three days in the territory of Iowa, searching into the facts
and matters, and my statements are made up from personal observation.
[Signed] JOSEPH A. KELTING, Deputy Sheriff of Hancock County.'
Evening of Friday, 17.---Elder H. C. Kimball, John Taylor and George
A. Smith met with me in my upper room: we counseled and prayed."
CHAPTER
XXVIII THE STORY OF CONTINUED PROGRESS OF THE CHURCH IN NAUVOO, IN
EUROPE AND IN THE UNITED STATES----PLEA FOR THE RETURN OF
JAMES EMMETT'S COMPANY
"Saturday January 18, 1845.----I called at Elder Willard Richards'
and left some correspondence: proceeded to the Temple.
Sunday, 19.----The seventies met at their hall. Presidents for the
sixteenth and seventeenth quorums were set apart; fifty persons were
ordained. Afternoon the high priests' quorum met; President George Miller
preached on the subject of Intemperance. In the evening I met the police
and instructed them in their duties.
Monday, 20.----I called on Elder Willard Richards and found him
engaged on the History.
Tuesday, 21.----Forenoon, with Elders Kimball and Richards at the
Historian's Office. Wrote a letter to my brother, Phineas H., with counsel
for the saints in Kirtland to come to Nauvoo, that all who have faith in
the latter-day work may be united with us in building the Temple.
Evening, I met in council with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Willard
Richards, George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman; we wrote to Elder Jedediah
M. Grant, Philadelphia, counseling him to forward all the young men and
other available help he could to build the Temple.
Wednesday, 22.----Forenoon, Elder Orson Pratt wrote a letter, in
behalf of the council, to Elder Parley P. Pratt. Afternoon, I went to the
Historian's Office accompanied by Elders Kimball and Taylor. The letters
to Elders Grant and Pratt were read and approved.
A copy of Elder Pratt's letter was sent to Wm. Smith.
Evening, accompanied by my wife I attended a party at Brother
Woodruff's, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, George A. Smith, W. W. Phelps
and their wives were present.
Elder Elias Smith received a letter from A. W. Babbitt, Springfield,
Ill., with the information that he was before the Legislative House
Committee on Banks and Corporations pertaining to the bill for the
unconditional repeal of the Nauvoo Charter. Jacob A. Davis made a strong
anti-Mormon speech before said committee and presented them with a full
file of the Nauvoo Neighbor containing the ordinances passed by the city
council. Mr. Backenstos was also before the committee and pleaded like an
apostle for the rights of his constituents. The committee inquired of Mr.
Babbitt as to `bogus-making'----spiritual wife doctrine----and whether he
believed in [Joseph] Smith's revelations.
He had made two speeches before the committee, but believed they would
recommend the passage of the bill.
Thursday, 23.----I wrote to Elder Ezra T. Benson: called at the
Trustees Office; went to the Temple; called at Elder Richards', Kimball's,
Taylor's and Hyde's. Found Brother John Scott at my house who said Brother
Aaron Smith had just returned from Appanoose and said Wilson Law was there
lecturing to the mob; counseling them to drive the `Mormons' from Nauvoo
before the Temple was done or they never could.
Friday, 24.----Elders Heber C. Kimball and N. K. Whitney were at my
house. Elder Orson Hyde returned from St. Louis, Mo.
The plasterers finished plastering the Concert Hall. This building is
thirty feet by fifty and eleven feet high. The ceiling is arched and has
sounding jars. It has been built amidst difficulty and discouragement in
consequence of poverty, and has cost nearly one thousand dollars: much of
the burden has laid on the Trustees, Stephen H. Goddard, Wm. F. Cahoon,
and Wm. Clayton.
Saturday, 25.----I went to the Temple this morning, thence with Elder
Kimball, my brother Joseph, and Marshal Jon. C. Wright, to Brother
Richards' office.
Sunday, 26.----I attended the regular meeting of the high priests'
quorum at the Masonic Hall. George Miller presiding, who introduced the
subject of building a hall for the use of the quorums of high priests one
hundred and twenty feet long by eighty wide, and about thirty-three feet
high. I asked all that were in favor of having such a hall built, and were
willing to do something towards building it, and not merely look on and
see their brethren build it, to raise their hands; all hands were raised.
I told them such a building as had been proposed would not cost less than
fifteen thousand dollars. Two years ago or even one year ago we had not a
public hall in this city. The room in Brother Joseph's store was the only
one where a congregation could convene. A year ago last fall I said to the
seventies that if I were as strong and numerous a body as they were, I
would go to work and put up a building that I might have a place to
worship in. They put up their building, but the plan being altered, at the
suggestion of Brother Hyrum, they had to wait for timber and could not
finish it that season. Should the high priests commence the erection of
the building proposed, next fall will come and even winter and the quorum
will still be without a place to meet in, and probably the next season
would pass away before it could be finished. I proposed to the quorum to
finish off the upper story of the Temple in which they could receive their
washings and anointings and endowments instead of undertaking a building
from the commencement: this proposition was received by unanimous vote.
Elder Heber C. Kimball preached in the Concert Hall.
The seventies met in their hall. President Joseph Young presiding,
James M. Munroe expressed his willingness to teach the seventies English
grammar. Elder George A. Smith spoke on the benefits arising from
education; he said the saints should improve and be diligent in acquiring
knowledge, this people and their gathering together has been made a
political question, and we are a bone for all the world to pick at; Lawyer
Babbitt had written that the legislature had repealed the city charter of
Nauvoo, and there was a great rejoicing among the priests at their
victory.
President Joseph Young spoke of the importance of being able to speak
correctly. He lectured the youth who joined the quorums as to obedience;
said, if he knew of a man belonging to these quorums stealing we would be
cut off the church and published in the Neighbor. The saints had always
taught honesty, virtue and uprightness----the lives of thousands were
jeopardized by rascals and hypocrites, who would call you brother and
pilfer your property; such were neither fit to be called saints nor decent
human beings, they would go to hell. The names of several suspected of
stealing were mentioned. James Dunn was cut off, two members were called
in question for drunkenness.
Evening, I attended prayer meeting.
Monday, 27.----Attended to sending off fifty missionaries and
forwarding letters to Elders Parley P. Pratt, Wm. Smith and J. M. Grant.
Elder Kimball preached the funeral sermon of Sister Perrygrine Sessions.
Evening, at Dr. Richards' office; I dictated a letter to Joshua Grant
and heard several articles read.
I insert minutes of meeting of the Presidents of Seventies:
MINUTES OF SEVENTIES COUNCIL `Meeting opened by singing and prayer.
President Joseph Young spoke upon the lack of wisdom and economy of the
members of this church. As an example he quoted the teaching of a certain
elder, a president of one of the quorums, who told the people he
considered the Twelve Apostles to be God to us. This sentiment expressed
to many was not only dangerous to the community, but was calculated to
jeopardize the lives of the Twelve. The same allusion was made to Joseph,
and the reply of the mob was, well if Jo Smith is their God we will kill
their God, and so they did, and it may be so with the Twelve. The brethren
should speak and act in wisdom for their own sake as well as for the
truth's sake. There are brethren in these quorums and even presidents who
are connected with a body of those consecrating thieves, who pretend to
say that they have a right to consecrate from the Gentiles, but such will
steal from their brethren as well as others.
Several elders spoke on the subject, expressing their sense of the
propriety of expelling said members from the church and publishing their
names.
The clerk, Elder John D. Lee, said that some of the brethren were
probably too hasty in their decision according to his view of the matter.
He considered that if the elders acted with discretion they must not be
excited nor influenced by passion and remarked that did the elders possess
the power of Jehovah in their present weak condition in less than
twenty-four hours the earth would be depopulated, especially should the
elders be vested with that power in turns, for what would be spared by one
would likely be destroyed by another.
President Brigham Young arose and said, `When men have come into our
midst who were as corrupt as the devil himself, many have supposed it
would have been better to have cut their throats with a feather and
exposed their sink of corruption, and let them go to hell where they
belonged, than to have borne with them as Brother Joseph Smith did; but
this course would meet with a conflicting argument. To stop a man in his
career would be taking away his agency. Cain was permitted to live,
peradventure, he might repent of his wickedness, and redeem a portion of
his time, and thereby obtain a glory and salvation, though not a full
salvation; and this is the reason that Brother Joseph bore so long with
Jackson and others, that peradventure they might, notwithstanding they
had been guilty of murder and robbery, come to the waters of baptism
through repentance, and redeem a part of their allotted time. If they were
cut off from the earth they might with propriety come up in the day of
judgment and say we took away their agency, which if we had let alone,
they would have repented of their sins and redeemed a part of their time.
The presidents of seventies should be men of wisdom and know how to save
men instead of destroying them; for example let a hot-headed president
stand at the head of a quorum and let some of the members of his quorum be
overtaken in a fault, it would make no difference how small or great the
offense might be, the first steps that would be taken (instead of going in
a private manner, as a prudent reflecting president should and teach the
guilty the law of redemption, bind up the breach and thereby save a soul
from ruin) would be to have the offense made public---have the accused
arraigned before the quorum in order to ferret out the crime, thus
increasing the wound, especially if it should be an interruption between a
man and his wife; the offense having become public, confidence is lost,
not only in the accused, but the parties concerned lose confidence in each
other, their reputation sinks, consequently despair rushes into the
troubled soul, who is thus rashly treated and he or they suppose they have
not a friend on earth, consequently imagine it is useless for them to try
to redeem their former standing, and in fact instances have been known of
individuals under like circumstances giving up to intoxication and finally
become the most miserable dissipated and abandoned wretches on earth;
whereas, had wisdom been used, the soul might have been reclaimed and
saved by casting the mantle of charity around them and thereby covering up
a multitude of sins. This is what is meant by the mantle of charity that
Paul speaks of [covering a multitude of sins].
We should be charitable, liberal, patient and forbearing with each
other and above all never blast each others' characters, rather hide each
others faults with the mantle of charity; for when but few know your
faults they seem but few, but expose them and they become multitudes.'
Tuesday, 28,----I met in council with Elders Heber C. Kimball, John
Taylor, John E. Page, Bishops Whitney and Miller, Reynolds Cahoon and
Elias Smith, when was read a letter from Wm. P. Richards, Esq., Macomb,
McDonough county, Illinois, to Bishop George Miller suggesting the
propriety of petitioning congress for a grant of land twenty-four miles
square in the pineries or other uninhabited portions of public domain to
be set apart as a reserve for the saints, with power to make our own local
arrangements, and enact laws not repugnant to the Constitution of the
United States. This he considers necessary in consequence of the
irreconcilable feelings of the public in relation to us as a religious
body: his communication with the correspondence thereon was published in
the Neighbor.
Wednesday, 29.----I called at Elder Richards' office with Elder
Kimball and Thomas Kingston and read a letter from J. B. Backenstos
informing us of the strong prejudice entertained by the members of the
legislative assembly and the determined spirit evinced to repeal the
Nauvoo City Charter; also informing us that John Dougherty, senator from
Union county, openly justified the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, and
that the senate had discharged from arrest Jacob C. Davis, one of their
number, who was indicted for murder. Mr. Backenstos had appealed to the
sense of justice, equal rights, patriotism and humanity possessed by the
members of the house of representatives in vain. His colleague Mr. Babbitt
and himself had done their duty.
Afternoon, attended council.
Evening, I assisted Brother Kimball to prepare his Journal for the
press, and blessed his child, Brigham Willard.
Thursday, 30.----Attended council with the authorities of the city,
pertaining to the action of the legislature in repealing the City Charter.
The council agreed to have the city election go on tomorrow, not knowing
whether the governor would pass or veto the bill. A committee was
appointed to confer with legal gentlemen in relation to the legitimacy of
the legislature repealing a charter granted for the term of perpetual
succession. * * *
Friday, 31.----Elders Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, Willard Richards
and W. W. Phelps engaged in writing letters to eminent jurists, inquiring
as to the constitutionality of the action of the Illinois legislature in
repealing the City Charter of Nauvoo.
Received a letter from Elder Parley P. Pratt in relation to the
prosperity of the church under his care, [i. e. N. Y.] and the great
demand for Books of Doctrine and Covenants and Hymn Books.
A meeting was held in the Seventies' Hall, for the purpose of forming
a Mercantile and Mechanical Association, Elder John Taylor, chairman.
Twelve trustees were elected to control the association, viz. Daniel Garn,
Samuel Bent, Shadrach Roundy, Charles C. Rich, John D. Lee, L. N. Scovil,
Joseph Worthen, Joseph Horn, Hosea Stout, Edward Hunter, Gustavus Williams
and Charles A. Davis.
Bishops Whitney and Miller, Trustees-in-Trust for the church
published the following:
AGENTS APPOINTED FOR RECEIVING DONATIONS AND TITHING FOR BUILDING THE
TEMPLE `To Whom It May Concern: This certifies that the following named
elders have been appointed by the proper authorities of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, agents to collect donations and
tithings for the Temple in Nauvoo and for other purposes; and have
complied with all necessary requirements by entering into bonds to our
entire satisfaction. We hope they will be received as such by all people
wherever they may travel. [Then follow the names of 46 elders so
appointed].
We hope also that the brethren will have confidence in them, inasmuch
as we hold ourselves responsible to credit on the Book of Law of the Lord,
for all donations put into their hands, to the names of the donors on
their tithing.
Inasmuch as this is a very good opportunity, and inasmuch as we feel
very anxious that all should double their exertions in order to finish the
building of the Temple the next season, that the saints may receive their
endowments; we hope the saints universally will embrace the opportunity,
and donate liberally, that they may the more speedily receive their
reward, for great things depend on our finishing the building of the
Temple with speed.'
Saturday, February 1, 1845.----At ten a. m. I met with Elders John
Taylor, Willard Richards, Orson Spencer, George Miller, W. W. Phelps and
L. R. Foster in committee to complete the letters to eminent jurists [i.
e. on legality of the repeal of the Nauvoo Charter].
Sunday, 2.----I preached in the Concert Hall, to a crowded assembly.
Elder Orson Hyde preached in the
Masonic Hall. Elder Heber C. Kimball preached at Brother Gully's at
candle light; Father John Smith and Bishop Miller made a few remarks.
The seventies met at their hall in the evening, Elders George A.
Smith, Joseph Young and others preached; several were ordained into the
quorums, and several presidents were set apart for the eighteenth quorum.
spent the evening at home with my family.
Monday, 3.----The following officers were elected without a
dissenting vote (about 900 votes polled):
Mayor: Orson Spencer.
Aldermen: Daniel Spencer, N. K. Whitney, George W. Harris and Charles
C. Rich.
Councilors: David Fullmer, John Pack, George Miller, W. W. Phelps,
Jonathan C. Wright, Samuel Bent, Phineas Richards, James Sloan and Edward
Hunter.
I received the following communication from the attorney-general of
the state of Illinois:
A FRIENDLY LETTER FROM JOSIAH LAMBORN, STATE OFFICIAL `Springfield,
28th Jan., 1845. Dear Sir: You and I were slightly acquainted heretofore,
though I presume you have forgotten me. During my sojourn here this
winter, I have carefully watched the progress of events and particularly
so in reference to your friends and fellow citizens of Nauvoo. Throughout
all the persecutions and abuses which have been heaped upon you. though I
have been far removed from any political or pecuniary influence which
might bias my mind; yet I have always considered that your enemies have
been prompted by religious and political prejudices and by a desire for
plunder and blood, more than for the common good. By the repeal of your
charter and by refusing all amendments and modifications our legislature
has given a kind of sanction to the barbarous manner in which you have
been treated.
Your two representatives exerted themselves to the extent of their
abilities in your behalf, but the tide of popular passion and frenzy was
too strong to be resisted. It is truly a melancholy spectacle to witness
the lawmakers of a sovereign state condescending to pander to the vices,
ignorance and malevolence of a class of people who are at all times ready
for riot, murder and rebellion. You had many true friends here. Most of
the intelligent gentlemen out of the legislature felt that you were an
injured and an outraged people. The members living nearest to your city
and having better means of information than those living remotely,
sustained and defended you to the last. The opposition was made up of the
body of the whig party, together with such demagogues of the other party
as could be cajoled and bamboozled by the whigs.
There is now presented to the house a new charter for your city. It
is referred to a select committee. What its fate may be no man can tell.
Your senator, Jacob C. Davis, has done much to poison the minds of members
against anything in your favor. He walks at large in defiance of law, an
indicted murderer. If a Mormon was in his position the senate would afford
no protection, but he would be dragged forth to the jail or to the gallows
or to be shot down by a cowardly and brutal mob.
All you have to do is to be quiet, submissive to the laws and
circumspect in your conduct. Heap coals of fire on their heads by humility
and kindness, and my word for it, there will be a mighty reaction in the
public sentiment, which will ultimately overthrow all your enemies. The
sober second thought of the people will always be fight, and heaven will
protect you against all the assaults of a corrupt and bloodthirsty rabble.
Excuse me for attempting to give you advice. I do not wish to
interfere with your affairs or to dictate in any way to your minds. My
motives are those of friendship springing warm from my heart and the same
which would control in relation to all mankind. Yours, etc. [Signed]
JOSIAH LAMBORN.
Tuesday, 4.----I met in council with the authorities of the church,
Afternoon, Elder Kimball visited Mother Smith.
Thursday, 6.----I preached in the Concert Hall to a large
congregation on the occasion of the death of Alonzo W. N. Whitney.
Friday, 7.----A meeting was held of the Council of the Trades
Association. Elders John Taylor, George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman
attended.
Sunday, 9.----Elder Kimball and I preached at Brother Horner's Mill;
had a good meeting with the brethren: many came to hear us.
Meeting at the stand: Elders John Taylor and George A. Smith preached
on the necessity of the people sustaining themselves by home productions
and their industry; manufacturing their own clothing and being united and
keeping such good order that the repeal of the city charters would be no
injury to the community.
Afternoon, high priests' quorum met.
Seventies met in their hall. President Joseph Young said he meant by
the assistance of the great God to cut off all liars, swearers,
bogus-makers and bogus-circulators and endeavor to purify the bodies of
the seventies from filth and wickedness. Seven presidents were set apart,
and thirty members ordained for the nineteenth quorum. Elder Amasa M.
Lyman addressed the meeting on the subject of order.
The branch at Quincy, Illinois, held a conference. There were
represented one hundred members, including nine high priests, one seventy,
twelve elders and two priests, one teacher and one deacon.
Monday, 10.----Meeting of the Presidents of Seventies at early candle
light. After the business before the meeting was attended to, I instructed
the elders on the subject of revelation; showing how the Lord dealt with
his children in revealing to them here a little and there a little, as
they were capacitated to receive, comprehend and improve upon, named
baptism for the dead in which the Lord first revealed the principle, then
the order. Elders John E. Page and George A. Smith bore testimony.
Tuesday, 11.----Elders Kimball, Page, Taylor, Smith, Lyman and myself
met with the Trades Committee.
Afternoon, attended meeting at Elder Taylor's with a Committee of the
Agricultural and Manufacturing Society. It was proposed that the citizens
be invited to subscribe twelve thousand days work, which it was estimated
would put a sufficient dam in the Mississippi to propel machinery.
Mr. John C. Elliott, one of the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith
was arrested by John Kay.
With other items, I wrote Elder Woodruff the following:
PRESIDENT YOUNG'S LETTER TO ELDER WOODRUFF IN ENGLAND `It will
rejoice your heart to hear that we have a remarkable mild winter, clear
and pleasant, no snow, and peace in the city, as it does ours to live here
and enjoy it. Though the papers report a total repeal of the Nauvoo
Charter by a large majority in both houses, we remain undisturbed, and
city affairs go on as usual. We expect to appeal to the U. S. court.
The stone is nearly hewn for the Temple; a stone font is about to be
erected, the woodwork is progressing rapidly under a temporary roof in the
basement story, and we hope to commence the endowments next fall or early
in the winter. We will not send many elders to England until after the
endowment.
You will please call at Stationer's Hall, London, the first
opportunity, and get or by some means procure a copy of the `copyright of
the Book of Mormon' and safely keep it until further notice. The saints
are more engaged than ever to finish the Temple, and it is desirable that
tithings be forwarded from all branches at the earliest safe conveyance.
The different quorums are becoming perfected in their several
organizations, by which means the elders are learning their duty. Union,
love and peace were never more universal among the saints at Nauvoo, than
at the present time. Brother Willard is convalescent, collecting materials
for history and much regrets the absence of Elder Woodruff's Journals.'
Wednesday, 12.----Mr. Elliott was examined before justices Aaron
Johnson, Daniel H. Wells, Isaac Higbee and committed to Carthage jail to
await his trial at he next term of the circuit court.
Thursday, 13.----I met in council with the Twelve and others. With
Elders Willard Richards, George A. Smith, and others, I spent the evening
at Elder Kimball's: had a good time.
Friday, 14.----Father Morley arrived from Yelrome near Lima, Adams
county, bringing word that five of he brethren there had been arrested
charged with larceny; he says that property had been concealed on their
premises and recovered by a search warrant, on the principle `those that
can find'. These proceedings were had to produce excitement, and a warrant
is said to be out for Father Morley. I met with the Twelve and others and
prayed for the deliverance of these brethren. Father Morley was counseled
to remove his family to Nauvoo and Solomon Hancock was appointed to
preside over that branch. Dr. John M. Bernhisel was appointed a Traveling
Bishop to visit the churches. Some conversation ensued on the subject of
sending six brethren with Brother Lewis Dana to the west and especially to
Texas.
Saturday, 15.----A conference was held in Lipsey, Tuscaloosa county,
Alabama. Five branches were represented containing one hundred and
forty-one members, including twenty-four officers, A. O. Smoot, presided.
Died----in Nauvoo, Asa Works, Sen., aged eighty-three years, after a
sickness of six months.
He served his country as a soldier in the American Revolution; was in
the battles of Bennington and Monmouth, in the latter of which he received
a wound in his left arm between the shoulder and elbow,----underwent a
great deal of hardship, privation and hunger in helping to gain American
independence.
In the year 1838, he emigrated to Far West, Missouri, at which place
he was called to witness the violation of that liberty he fought to
obtain. He endured with the Latter-day Saints all the persecution and
suffering inflicted upon them in 1838 and 9 in Missouri; and since that
time has lived in exile in the state of Illinois. Brother Asa Works was
the father of my first wife, Miriam.
Sunday, 16.----Elder Amasa M. Lyman preached in the Masonic Hall. The
seventies from the first to the eighth quorums met in their hall. Elder
Zerah Pulsipher preached. Elder George A. Smith preached to the high
priests: three persons were ordained high priests. Evening, I attended
prayer meeting at the Trustees' Office.
Monday, 17.----Meeting of the Presidents of Seventies. Measures were
adopted to facilitate the building of President Joseph Young's house.
Tuesday, 18.----The Board of the Mercantile and Mechanical
Association met at the Masonic Hall and proceeded to organize.
I attended a council at President John Smith's, and ordained Wm.
Perkins bishop of Macedonia and Andrew H. Perkins his counselor.
Thursday, 20.----I called at Elder W. Richards office with Elders
Joseph Young, George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman. I heard a recital of the
Haun's Mill Massacre by my brother Joseph: afterwards went to the Temple.
Friday, 21.----I preached at Brother Robert Pierce's on the occasion
of the funeral of Brother Morris Whitesides.
Saturday, 22.----I attended meeting of the high council in the
Seventies' Hall: a full quorum present.
Sunday, 23.----I preached at Hiram Kimball's, Elders Heber C. Kimball
and George A. Smith administered the sacrament: had a good meeting.
Meeting of seventies in their hall. Elders P. B. Lewis made a few
remarks. President Joseph Young spoke of the principle of receiving
revelation from God.
Meeting at Bishop Hale's. Elder Dunham preached, followed by Mother
Smith, who gave a recital of the persecutions endured by her family, in
establishing the church, and exhorted the brethren and sisters to bring up
their children in the way they should go; there were meetings held in the
Concert and Masonic Halls.
Afternoon, high priests quorum met, Elder Kimball preached.
Evening, the Twelve Apostles and others met in council and for
prayer.
Monday, 24.----In company with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt,
Amasa M. Lyman, George Miller, William Clayton, George D. Grant, E. D.
Woolley, John Kay and John L. Smith I went to Macedonia;
we were armed with forty-six rounds, loaded pistols,
After the company partook of refreshments, we met at Brother Benjamin
F. Johnson's and enjoyed a pleasant evening; Brother Kay sang a number of
songs.
Evening, the Presidents of Seventies met in their hall. The charges
against James Carrol and Hiram Gates, were investigated and they were
expelled from the church. The brethren agreed to trade with those
merchants who sustained good order and honored the laws of the city.
Tuesday, 25.----I spent the day in Macedonia, settling the church
business with Elder B. F. Johnson. The company from Nauvoo dined at Elder
Wm. G. Perkins'.
Afternoon, visited the saints. Evening. Elders Orson Pratt, Amasa M.
Lyman, George Miller and I preached. Chatted at Brother Johnson's till
after midnight. I told the brethren that all was not right and that we
would have some of the brethren from Nauvoo before daybreak; George D.
Grant and John Kay agreed to watch during the night. A rumor having
reached Nauvoo that Elder Kimball and I were in Carthage jail, Elders John
E. Page, John Taylor, Willard Richards, George A. Smith, and Charles C.
Rich, met in Nauvoo at Elder Taylor's and investigated the report, and
though they did not believe it, they deemed it prudent to dispatch Brother
Hosea Stout and seven of the old police to Macedonia, as a protection for
us.
President John Smith very sick, several of the Twelve administered to
him.
Wednesday, 26.----Brother Hosea Stout and company arrived in front of
Brother Johnson's house; we at first thought it was the mob, but when Wm
H. Kimball cried out Father don't you know me', we immediately recognized
the brethren and had a joyful meeting; they brought us word of the rumor
which had arisen in Nauvoo from two suspicious persons who had been at
Brother Turley's inquiring for Elder Kimball and me.
At ten a. m. we started for Nauvoo, twenty-three of the brethren from
Macedonia accompanying us through the timber about seven miles when we
halted and Howard Egan recited a negro sermon; I made a few remarks by way
of counsel to the Macedonia brethren and blessed them in the name of the
Lord; they returned home; we proceeded and arrived in Nauvoo about three
p. m.
Thursday, 27.----This morning in company with Elders George A. Smith,
John E. Page, Willard Richards and John Taylor I proceeded to the bank of
the river, in the lower part of the city, the site of the contemplated dam
and in presence of about one hundred individuals consecrated the ground by
prayer; Elder John E. Page being mouth. I made a few remarks.
The Twelve Apostles, Trustees, mayor, aldermen and councilors met in
council. Moses Smith represented the condition of the company led into the
wilderness by James Emmett, After mature deliberation on the situation and
was unanimously voted that Elder Amasa M. Lyman visit them, and that he
choose a companion to accompany him. Voted that Elder Orson Pratt write a
fatherly epistle in behalf of this council and Elder Orson Spencer assist
him: Elder Lyman chose Elder Daniel Spencer to accompany him.
The following is a copy of the letter written:
THE COUNCIL'S LETTER WRITTEN TO JAMES EMMETT AND COMPANY `Nauvoo,
February 27, 1845. To James Emmett & Company, Dear Brethren: We, the
Twelve and some other of the authorities of the church, being in council
assembled, send unto you this epistle by the hand of our beloved,
trustworthy and faithful brother Amasa M. Lyman, whom we have counseled to
visit you, and give you instruction for your good and salvation.
Though our counsel has been lightly esteemed and disregarded by
Brother Emmett, yet we verily believe there are those among you who have
been honestly and sincerely deceived by his vain pretenses and
misrepresentations. We labored long and faithfully to persuade Brother
Emmett to hearken to the counsel of his friends to whom were committed the
power, authority and keys for the salvation of Zion and the redemption of
her children together with the keys of endowment for the lifting up and
exaltation of the heirs of promise---the remnant of Joseph---but our
counsels, our persuasions, our entreaties, and all our labors with him
were in vain. He still persisted in his course and has led you forth from
our midst and separated you from the body and like a branch severed from a
tree you must and will perish together with your posterity and your
progenitors unless you are engrafted again thereon before you wither and
die; and because we know your unfortunate condition, and because we feel
for your safety as a kind father feels for his tender offspring we
therefore stretch out our arms to you and would feign welcome you to the
bosom of our counsels and rescue you from the vortex of ruin and
destruction into which you will inevitably and irrecoverably plunge
yourselves by continuing to hearken to the counsels of one who will not
regard the advice and counsel of the proper authorities of the kingdom of
God.
Do you wish, dear brethren, to see the house of our God built up.
adorned, and prepared according to the commandment and pattern given? Do
you wish to enter into its sacred courts and receive your washings and
anointings, and the keys of knowledge and power? Do you desire the eternal
seal of the priesthood placed upon your head by which your progenitors for
ages past and your posterity for endless generations to come shall be
secured to you in a covenant that is everlasting? Do you desire to take
part with the servants of God in teaching, civilizing, saving and exalting
the Lamanites? And, in fine, do you desire to stand forth with the
servants of God and in the majesty and strength and greatness of the
everlasting priesthood rescue the earth from violence, oppression and
wickedness and seal all things unto the end of all things that the saints
alone may have dominion.
All of you are ready to answer yes, and respond with a hearty
affirmative. But remember that there is but one way by which you can
realize or partake of these things; it is by hearkening to our counsel in
all things; and for this reason we send unto you Brother Amasa [M. Lyman],
who will counsel you in all things according to the mind and will of God,
according to the circumstances in which you are placed.
If Brother Emmett will receive our advice and continue so to do, it
shall yet be well with him, but if not we say in the name of the Lord that
it shall be ill with him and all that follow him.'
Evening, called on Father John Smith, who was still sick; united with
the brethren and prayed for him: he felt blessed.
Friday, 28.----I went to the Temple and visited the Trustees, and
counseled with them pertaining to business: all things going on well.
Saturday, March 1, 1845.----I met with the "General Council' at the
Seventies Hall, We decided to send nine brethren westward, to search out a
location for the saints; many eloquent speeches were made on the present
position of affairs: had a good meeting, which continued all day.
The high council met: no business.
The overflowing of rivers in the north of China submerged whole
provinces with populations respectively larger than some of the second
class kingdoms of Europe. When the waters receded thousands of corpses
were left on the ground. Upwards of seventeen millions of human beings who
have escaped from the inundations have spread over the adjacent provinces,
beggared of all things and crying for bread.
Sunday, 2.----At home----unwell. Elders Heber C. Kimball and John E.
Page preached in the Music Hall. The seventies and their families met in
their hall. Elders Luman A. Shurtliff, Hiram Dayton, and Joseph Young
preached.
Evening, visited Father John Smith and the mother of the Prophet.
Monday, 3.----I accompanied Elder Heber C. Kimball at his request on
to the hill to transact some business: returned home quite sick and went
to bed.
Evening, the Presidents of Seventies met, and investigated the
characters of several of their members. The choir had a concert at the
Music Hall; Elders Taylor and Kimball addressed the assembly spiritedly.
Tuesday, 4.----Continued sickly. General Council met at Seventies
Hall; Elder Kimball presided; the subject of the western mission was
discussed.
Thursday, 6.----Elders Kimball and Richards called on me this
evening. I sat up a little and felt better.
Friday, 7.----I walked over to my brother Joseph's: felt considerably
better. I had no doctor in my sickness, but the Lord, my wife, and the
laying on of hands of the elders.
Saturday, 8.----I rode up to the Temple. High council met----no
business----adjourned.
Sunday, 9.----I attended council with Elders Heber C. Kimball, John
Taylor, George A. Smith, N. K. Whitney and George Miller, most of the day;
afterwards met with the high priests' quorum and preached. Evening,
attended seventies meeting and addressed the brethren.
Elder Wilford Woodruff attended conference at Preston, England. Five
hundred and five members were represented.
Monday, 10.----Forenoon, with Elders Kimball and Richards. Afternoon,
Elders George A. Smith assisted Elder Richards to get out historical
items.
Tuesday, 11.----I attended the General Council. The subject of
writing to Governor Ford; also the present movements of the mob were
discussed. It was considered best for those who are hunted with writs to
go on missions; as the policy of commencing a mob persecution has always
been to get out vexatious writs in order to provoke resistance to the form
of legal authority and thereby produce a collision between us and the
state; so that we may, if possible, evade the blow until we can finish the
Temple and the Nauvoo House. It was also decided that the workmen on the
walls of the Temple commence work tomorrow.
Wednesday, 12.----The sheriff is here with writs for several of the
brethren. He says that the mob have sent messengers to the governor to
inform him that the Mormons have resisted the officers and requesting him
to order a posse comitatus to come and take Brackenbury: Mr. Brackenbury
was a witness against the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Wm. Marks left town suddenly.
A dreadful earthquake occurred in the city of Mexico at fifty-two
minutes past three p. m., which caused a great amount of suffering and
great destruction of property.
Thursday, 13.----Several brethren accompanied Mr. Brackenbury to
Augusta.
Friday, 14.----I attended meeting in the Masonic Hall and proposed
that deacons be appointed to take care of the poor, in every neighborhood,
with bishops at their head: agreed to meet the bishops and their
counselors at the Masonic Hall on Monday morning to organize.
Brother A. P. Rockwood recorded the following:
`For the three and a half years that I have been in charge of the
Temple quarry, with from twenty to one hundred and fifty hands, Brother
Moses Horn has been the first person that has met with an accident by
blasting. During this time there has been burned, according to my
judgment, about one hundred casks of powder. Brother Horn had retired to
the usual distance while blasting; he was struck on the head by a stone
weighing one and a half pounds which fractured his skull; we immediately
conveyed him home, sent for Dr. Bernhisel and other physicians, who
pronounced the wound mortal: he died in three hours.'"
NOTE President Young in writing a letter (May 3, 1844) to Reuben
Hedlock, president of the European Mission at the time, said to him: "The
kingdom is organized; and although as yet no bigger than a grain of
mustard seed, the little plant is in a flourishing condition and our
prospects brighter than ever. Cousin Lemuel is very friendly [referring to
the Indians] and cultivating the spirit of peace and union in his family
very extensively."
Again in a discourse under date of July 8, 1855, President Young
said: "As was observed by Brother Pratt [this morning] that kingdom [i. e.
of God] is actually organized and the inhabitants of the earth do not know
it. If this people know anything about it, all right; it is organized
preparatory to taking effect in the due time of the Lord, and in the
manner that shall please him. As observed by one of the speakers this
morning that kingdom grows out of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, but it is not the church; for a man may be a legislator in that
body which will issue laws to sustain the inhabitants of the earth in
their individual rights and still not belong to the Church of Jesus Christ
at all. And further though a man may not even believe in any religion it
would be perfectly right, when necessary, to give him the privilege of
holding a seat among that body which will make laws to govern all the
nations of the earth and control those who make no profession of religion
at all; for that body would be governed, controlled and dictated to
acknowledge others in those rights which they wish to enjoy themselves.
Then the Latter-day Saints would be protected, if a kingdom of this kind
was on the earth, the same as all other people."
The late President George Q. Cannon while editor of the Juvenile
Instructor said:
"We are asked, Is the Church of God, and the Kingdom of God the same
organization~ and we are informed that some of the brethren hold that they
are separate.
This is the correct view to take. The Kingdom of God is a separate
organization from the Church of God. There may be men acting as officers
in the Kingdom of God who will not be members of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. On this point the Prophet Joseph gave
particular instructions before his death, and gave an example, which he
asked the younger elders who were present to always remember. It was to
the effect that men might be chosen to officiate as members of the Kingdom
of God who had no standing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. The Kingdom of God when established will not be for the protection
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints alone, but for the
protection of all men, whatever their religious views or opinions may be.
Under its rule, no one will be permitted to overstep the proper bounds or
to interfere with the rights of others."
Undoubtedly all this has reference to the time spoken of by St. John
in Revelation when he said: "And the seventh angel sounded; and there were
great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the
kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign forever and
ever."
However it is proper to note that sometimes these terms "the Church
of Christ", "the Kingdom of God" and "the Kingdom of Heaven" are used
interchangeably in the scriptures and hence the confusion in these terms
sometimes obtains.
CHAPTER XXIX
THE JAMES EMMETT COMPANY OFFICIALLY VISITED--- APRIL
CONFERENCE OF 1845----MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS UNDER GENERAL STATE
LAW ---- WESTERN MOVEMENT PROPOSED BY GOVERNOR FORD
"Saturday, March 15, 1845.----Attended council at the Trustees'
Office: present----a quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Presidency of the
Seventies, Temple Committee, Trustees and Architect. We decided to put all
our help on the Temple----build a drain for the font----- a wall on the
south side of the Temple block----keep three cranes going, and stop
building the dam in the Mississippi till next winter.
Afternoon, I attended the high council in company with Elders Heber
C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, John Taylor, George A. Smith, and John E. Page.
Elders Amasa M. Lyman and Daniel Spencer returned from their visit to
Emmett's company.
At five p. m,, the Twelve and Trustees repaired to the Mansion and
heard Elder Lyman give an account of his late mission to Emmett's company.
He found them on the Iowa river one hundred and fifty miles west of the
settlements in a deplorable condition, caused chiefly by the rigid
enforcement of Emmett's measures; he having limited their food to three
gills of corn each per day. The company were much distressed and in all
probability many would soon return to Nauvoo.
The Twelve and Trustees partook of supper provided by Brother John
Pack at the Mansion; after which the band discoursed sweet music,
Mr. Brackenbury and company returned from
Augusta; he had not been brought to trial, the party prosecuting
alleging they were not ready; Brackenbury offered to admit the charge, and
give bonds for his appearance at next court, which was all the justice of
the peace could require, if the trial had proceeded and the charge had
been sustained; but the justice would not do it, so determined were the
mob to annoy Brackenbury and get an opportunity to do him personal
violence. Mr. Brackenbury was arrested for perjury; but the real intention
of the mob was to get him into their hands to murder him, to prevent his
being a witness against the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.
Sunday, 16.----Elder Amasa M. Lyman preached at the stand, He spoke
as follows:
`I have been in the woods and have seen those people who have gone
into the wilderness to get their endowment. They have suffered
much----have been reduced in their rations to three gills of corn per day,
and latterly to two gills, hence you will not be surprised when I tell you
that they have grown very poor. This is the way they live in the
wilderness, still they profess to abide the counsel of the Twelve. Emmett
is trustee-in-trust and Butler is second in command. Their countenances
brightened up when they saw Brother Spencer and me, and found they were
not all entirely cut off. The majority of them were under the impression
that their movement was directed by the orders of the Twelve.
Brother Emmett did not manifest any disposition to follow the counsel
of the Twelve, he said if the Twelve would live among the Gentiles longer
he had no objections, but that he had endured the driving from Missouri
with patience, and that he was clear from the blood of the Gentiles. He
seemed determined to go ahead against the advice of God, man or she devil.
He got his company to consecrate wife, children, clothing and everything
they had, and place all their property under the control of the bishop;
there is not one who can control a second suit of clothes. Brother Hilmer
wanted to come away. Emmett said to him, `Did not you covenant to stand by
us? If you want to be a covenant-breaker you can go.' They have more arms
than men. More than one-half of the party were for stopping. Orders were
given for the arms to be brought in and piled. Those who declared their
determination to go ahead took the arms and the others were commanded to
stand and have their tents searched. The suffering they have endured is
too bad to talk about. Once in a while their cattle die; they have not the
trouble of killing them; they then go to work and eat them. I stayed one
night, my heart was sick; I left and wrote to them.'
REMARKS OF BRIGHAM YOUNG ON EMMETT'S COMPANY AND SUNDRY TOPICS I
[Brigham Young] also addressed the meeting and said: iI will give a few of
my own ideas in short. Living poor, being in the wilderness, etc., is
nothing to me when I am called to endure it, but people who run headlong
into misery and bring upon themselves suffering, do not arrive at anything
but darkness and despair. There is not one of Emmett's company that can
claim the protection of heaven or any blessing of the everlasting gospel;
their sufferings add nothing to their exaltation, but if the Lord had
called them to pass through trials, they would have visions, revelations
and faith (if necessity required) to cause him to feed them like the
children of Israel. We told James Emmett, if he went, he would get into
trouble: this congregation can be led by a thread. Religion is one thing
and fanaticism is another.
Spring is here; we covenanted to labor on the Temple until it was
finished and do all we could towards its completion; but we have not done
it; if the brethren had continued, they might have worked on those walls
four days a week, The stonecutters and joiners have been at work; the
joiners have far exceeded our expectations this winter. The timber holds
out, we keep using and there is enough left; there will be no lack of
timber, If the brethren will go to work now, there will be no lack of
provisions. We want the brethren to pay up their tithing. If you will haul
wood, timber, etc., and help on the Temple you will find that it will be
made up to you in your crops.
Since N. K. Whitney and George Miller have taken charge of the
business, no man has needed anything but what has been supplied. I can
call scores of men around me, who would sooner sacrifice every dollar they
have, than the work on the Temple should stop. We can set four hundred men
to work on the Temple. I do not want any man to go to preach till he is
sent, If the world want to hear preaching let them come here, and if they
really want the gospel, let them clean [up] Carthage jail.
I have proposed to the leading men of the Water Power Company, to put
their work on the Temple. I will call the stockholders together, and give
my reasons to them. We want to press forward the work on the Temple. I now
proclaim to all saints who control means, to go to the Trustees and see if
they want means to procure provisions, etc., for the hands; and I ask you
to use all your influence to strengthen the hands of the Trustees.
I swear by the God of heaven that we will not spend money in feeing
lawyers. All the lawsuits that have been got up against the saints, have
been hatched up to fee lawyers, tavernkeepers, etc. I would rather have a
six-shooter than all the lawyers in Illinois. I am sworn not to pay
lawyers, but to pay our debts, and it will relieve us from an immense tax.
Do not let there be a lot laying vacant in this town, join fences, for
there is land enough in this city without going on to the prairie. I am
going to drop the name Nauvoo and call this the `City of Joseph'. Tomorrow
evening we want the bishops at the Masonic Hall, and we will organize them
according to our notion of things. We have no police; the legislature has
repealed our charter, and we mean to have the `City of Joseph' organized.
The streets shall be kept clear; and the poor cared for.
Brother Wm. Marks has gone without being `whittled' out. He would
hire a man for twenty-five cents a day and would make a man work two days
in the harvest field for one bushel of wheat, which is one of the most
low, dishonest, mean things a person can do.'
Elder Heber C. Kimball preached at Brother Luce's on the occasion of
the death of Brother Moses Horn.
Monday, 17.----One hundred and five extra laborers and about thirty
teams commenced work at the Temple this morning in obedience to the call
of yesterday to hasten its completion.
Tuesday, 18.----I met with General Council all day.
Wednesday, 19.---Colonel Hosea Stout, who was on duty this evening at
my house [i. e. as watchman] called upon me and I had some conversation
with him in regard to the saints settling the country near the headwaters
of the Colorado of the west.
Thursday, 20.----Elder Heber C. Kimball and I called on Elder
Richards and found him and his clerks engaged on the history: we proceeded
to the Temple.
Evening, attended prayer meeting at Brother Joseph B. Noble's.
Friday, 21.----In company with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Willard
Richards, John E. Page and A. W. Babbitt, I went to the Trustees' Office
and consulted in relation to the best course for Mr. Brackenbury to
pursue. We agreed that he should sue out a writ of habeas corpus
returnable before Judge Young at Quincy, and that Brother Babbitt should
accompany him thither.
Evening, attended prayer meeting at Brother Joseph B. Noble's.
Saturday, 22.----I attended the General Council. The subject of the
western mission was considered and occupied the most of the day: the
Nauvoo House, Printing Office, Church History and organization of the city
were also matters of consideration.
Sunday, 23.----Elder Heber C. Kimball preached in the Music Hall on
the building of the Temple.
Elder Wilford Woodruff attended a conference in Edinburgh, Scotland;
four hundred and nine members were represented.
Monday, 24.----In company with the Twelve Apostles I attended a
meeting at the Concert Hall in the evening. We ordained bishops who were
directed to set apart deacons in their wards to attend to all things
needful and especially to watch; being without any city organization, we
deemed it prudent to organize the priesthood more strictly that the peace
and good order hitherto sustained by the city might still be preserved.
Tuesday, 25.----I attended council with the Twelve and prayer meeting
in the evening.
Wednesday, 26.----Elder Amos Fielding with about fifty saints arrived
this evening, being a portion of the company who left Liverpool, England,
on the ship Palmyra; many of the company were unable to get further than
St. Louis. At nine p. m., I rode to the upper landing and welcomed the
saints, and directed the schoolhouse to be opened for the use of the
company during the night.
Brother Perkins from Macedonia, brought word that the mob were making
active preparations to make a break upon us about court time, which is the
third Monday in May: they were collecting artillery and organizing
themselves for a general raid.
Thursday, 27.----I attended council with the Twelve, the Trustees,
the Temple Committee and Brother Amos Fielding at Father Cutler's. Church
matters and the plans of the mob were canvassed.
At three p. m., Brother Wm. W. Player finished setting the last
trumpet stone on the capitals of the pilasters of the Temple. All the
capitals and trumpet stones are now safe on the walls, which is a matter
of rejoicing to all who love to witness the prosperity of the work. The
weather has been sometimes very cold and at other times very windy, so
that it has been impossible for the hands to continue on the walls, much
of the time of late.
Friday, 28.----I attended a party at the Mansion; most of the Twelve
and their families and about one hundred and forty others were present:
the brass band performed some good pieces.
Saturday, 29.----Elder Kimball and I called on Elder Richards at the
Historian's Office; thence we proceeded to the Temple.
Elder Orson Hyde preached at the stand on the occasion of a Masonic
funeral.
Sunday, 30.----I preached to the saints. It was very windy. It rained
in the afternoon.
Monday, 31.----Elder Wilford Woodruff attended a conference at
Liverpool, England: twelve branches were represented containing six
hundred and seventy-six members.
I wrote to Governor Ford asking his counsel in relation to the
reorganization of the militia of the city of Nauvoo, as the Legion was
dissolved by a repeal of the charter, and soliciting his vie on the great
western measure: and also whether it would be the best policy to organize
Nauvoo under the act for organizing towns.
Tuesday, April 1, 1845.----I commenced revising the History of Joseph
Smith at Brother Richards' office: Elder Heber C. Kimball and George A.
Smith were with me. President Joseph Smith had corrected forty-two pages
before his massacre. It afforded us great satisfaction to hear Brother
Richards read the history of the infancy of the church. Adjourned at
eleven p. m. having read one hundred and forty pages in Book `A'.
Wednesday, 2.----Engaged at Elder Richards' office with Elders
Kimball and Smith revising Church History.
Brother Jesse D. Hunter returned from his mission having visited the
branches in the state of Tennessee since January last, and received two
hundred and thirty dollars on tithing and offerings for the Temple mostly
in property.
Thursday, 3.----Accompanied by Elders Heber C. Kimball, Willard
Richards and George A. Smith, I went to the Temple.
Evening, the brethren of the Twelve and others met at Elder Richards'
office and prayed; we remembered our enemies and prayed that their designs
against Zion might fail; we felt the power of God.
Friday, 4.----I visited Brother Moore, who had been accidentally
shot. Dr. Bernhisel decided that the wound was mortal; but by the blessing
of God he recovered.
Elder Benjamin L. Clapp reported that he left Nauvoo on the
twenty-third day of October, 1844, on a special mission to collect tithing
throughout the southern states. He returned about this date, having held
many meetings, baptized fifteen persons and collected one thousand and
forty-seven dollars which he delivered to the Trustee-in-Trust,
The mob left notice with Sheriff Backenstos of Carthage to leave by
three p. m. today. The Jack-Mormons (the name attached to those friendly
to Mormonism), say they will defend him and are gathering a company for
that purpose. Backenstos says he will not be driven, but will stand his
ground: report says the mob are divided among themselves.
Brother William W. Major exhibited a painting of the assassination of
Joseph and Hyrum Smith by the mob at Carthage.
Sunday, 6.-----The following Conference Minutes are extracted from
the Times and Seasons;
CONFERENCE MINUTES `Special conference of the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints at Nauvoo, April 6, 1845; it being the first day of
the sixteenth year (i. e. of the organization of the church).
The choir sang `Hark the Jubilee' at quarter past ten o'clock, while
the assembly was collecting.
Present---President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde.
Orson Pratt, George A. Smith, John Taylor, John E. Page, Willard Richards,
and Amasa M. Lyman of the Quorum of the Twelve--- Father John Smith,
president of the stake---Bishops Whitney and Miller---the high
council---and about twenty-two thousand person: (in attendance) .
Elder Kimball called the meeting to order at half past ten a. m.; and
the choir sang the thirty-first hymn; followed by prayer by Elder Kimball;
the choir then sang `Come All Ye Sons of Zion',
The morning was spent in teaching, on the baptism for the dead, by
President Young.
Conference adjourned until two o'clock.
Two o'clock p. m.---Conference met pursuant to adjournment; the
forepart of which was taken up by the blessing of children, but owing to
the immense number it was found impossible to complete the whole, when it
was accordingly dispensed with, and the remainder of the afternoon was
occupied in exhortation from the stand, by Elder Page and President Young
and the conference adjourned until tomorrow at ten o'clock a. m.
Monday, April 7, 1845, ten o'clock a. m.---"Conference met pursuant
to adjournment; after the conference was seated, in consequence of the
high wind, it was thought best to remove into the valley, a little south;
and the whole of this immense congregation was removed, and comfortably
seated in the short space of about forty minutes. The choir sang `The
Heavenly Vision', and was followed by prayer, by Elder John Taylor, after
which the choir sang another hymn. Elder Kimball then arose and stated to
the congregation some of the items of business which would be necessary to
attend to during the day, viz.: the building of the Temple, and the Nauvoo
House; also, to take into consideration all old obligations against the
church, which are pouring in like a torrent, also to ascertain the
feelings of the people, in regard to sustaining the authorities of the
church under the present organization.
President Brigham Young then arose, and said he would now present the
first item of business, which would be to present the authorities of the
church for the approval or disapproval of the conference. He also said he
wanted to know if the saints are satisfied that Joseph Smith lived and
died as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator to this church.
Whereupon Elder Phelps moved that we accept the labors of Joseph
Smith as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator to the nineteenth century;
and that we are satisfied that he lived according to his profession, and
died a martyr to the truth. Carried unanimously.
Elder Phelps Moved that we accept the labors of Hyrum Smith,
believing that he lived according to his profession, and died a martyr to
the truth. Carried unanimously.
Elder Phelps moved that this conference accept the Twelve as the
First Presidency and leaders of this church. Carried unanimously. [After
which each of the Twelve was sustained separately by unanimous vote].
The chairman then observed, concerning the course of Lyman Wight, his
feelings are, that we should let him remain for the present, probably
hereafter there may be a time that he will hearken to counsel, and do much
good which he is capable of---for he is a noble-minded man.
The chairman then stated that the next item of business would be, to
present to the conference, the presidency of the stake; moved and seconded
that Patriarch John Smith continue in his office, as president of this
stake, and that he be sustained in his office. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Charles C. Rich be continued and sustained in
his office of counselor to Father Smith. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that George Miller be continued and sustained in
his office, as president of the high priests' quorum. Carried unanimously,
Moved and seconded that William Snow and Noah Packard be continued
and sustained in their office as counselors to President Miller. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Samuel Bent, be continued and sustained in
his office as president of the high council. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that George W. Harris, Alpheus Cutler, William
Huntington Sen., James Allred, Henry G. Sherwood, Thomas Grover, Newel
Knight, Lewis D. Wilson, David Fullmer, Ezra T. Benson, and Aaron Johnson
be continued and sustained in their office as members of the high council.
Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Joseph Young be continued and sustained as
President of the First Presidency of the Seventy. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Levi W. Hancock, Henry Harriman. Zerah
Pulsipher, Jedediah M. Grant, and Daniel S. Miles be continued and
sustained in their office, as Associate Presidents to President Joseph
Young. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that if Roger Orton will reform and become a good
man, he be received and ordained as a member of this presidency, Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Samuel Williams be continued and sustained in
his office as the president of the elders' quorum. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Jesse Baker, and Joshua Smith be continued,
and sustained as counselors to President Williams. Carried unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Newel K. Whitney and George Miller be
continued and sustained in their offices as Bishops and Trustees-in-
Trust, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Carried
unanimously.
Moved and seconded that Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds Cahoon be
continued and sustained as Temple Committee. Carried unanimously.
On the subject of the old church debts coming, it was moved and
seconded that the debts of Kirtland, and Missouri, and the debts that are
said to be accrued in consequence of purchasing the Galland tract in Iowa
territory, be dropped, and come up no more, and the Trustees shall be
dunned for them no more forever;---neither shall they be sold into the
hands of the Gentiles, Carried unanimously.
Conference then adjourned until 2 o'clock.
Two o'clock p. m.----Conference met pursuant to adjournment,
The choir sang a hymn, which was followed by prayer from Elder Orson
Pratt; after which the choir sang another hymn. By request of President
Young, Elder Orson Pratt read the revelation, given January 19th, 1841,
concerning the building of the Temple, Nauvoo House, etc. After which he
read an extract from the Law of the Lord, page 240.
The chairman then stated that he wanted to lay before the conference,
the subject of completing the Nauvoo House, whereupon---
Elder Phelps moved `that we fulfill the revelation, by completing the
Nauvoo House, as soon as possible.' Carried unanimously.
The chairman called for a show of hands from all those who could, and
would, take one share of stock in the Nauvoo House, there were so many
hands uplifted that they could not possibly be counted.
He next called for a show of hands from those who could and would,
take two shares; quite a large number of hands were shown.
He then called for a show of hands from all, both male and female,
who, after they had done all they could to finish the Temple are willing
to sacrifice their all, to finish the Nauvoo House, rather than not have
it done. Every hand was raised in the congregation.
The President then proclaimed to the conference, that on next Monday,
the books for the Nauvoo House Association would be opened in the upper
part of the brick store on Water Street.
The conference then adjourned until tomorrow at 10 o'clock a. m.
Tuesday, April 8, 1845.---Conference met pursuant to adjournment at
10 a. m. and was addressed by Elders Kimball and Young, upon the propriety
of the saints staying in Hancock county, and in the afternoon Elders
Young, Page, and Hyde addressed the assembly.
Perfect union and harmony prevailed throughout the conference and
there was but one dissenting vote in the entire congregation.
It was moved by the President, [Brigham Young] that henceforth and
forever, this city shall be called `The City of Joseph'. [Carried
unanimously.]
Great praise is due to ex-Marshal A. P. Rockwood, and his associates
for their unwearied exertion, to arrange and seat the numberless assembly,
for the most perfect order was maintained by them throughout the whole
city and the conference---and to the saints universally for seconding
their movements.
On motion conference adjourned until the 6th of October next.
[Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. William Clayton Clerks of Conference.'
Thomas Bullock
COMMENTS ON THE CONFERENCE `Elder George D. Watt, whose valuable
services to this church as Professor of Phonography, are highly
appreciated; has taken down the speeches delivered on this occasion, and
they will appear from time to time as circumstances will allow.
Never have we seen the time before when the people were more willing
to receive and listen to counsel than now. The high council have only had
one case in about seven weeks. Our magistrates have nothing to do. We have
little or no use for charter or law. Every man is doing his best to
cultivate the ground, and all are anxious to provide things honestly in
the sight of all men---to honor our God, our country and its laws.
Whenever a dispute or difficulty arises, a word from the proper source
puts all to right, and no resort to law. May God ever save us from this
snare of men, this drainer of the purse, and this fruitful source of
contention and strife.'
Monday, April 7, 1845.----The stockholders of the Nauvoo House
Association met. Elders George A. Smith and Amasa. M. Lyman were appointed
trustees in the place of Lyman Wight and John Snider; L. R. Foster was
appointed clerk.
Tuesday, 8.----I had a conversation with Dr. W. G. Goforth on the
principles of the gospel and baptized him, and in company with Brothers
Heber C. Kimball and George A. Smith confirmed him a member of the church
and ordained him a high priest.
Brother Elijah Fordham returned from New York and brought twelve
hundred and sixty-three dollars for the Temple.
Wednesday, 9.----I met in council with the Twelve and bishops at the
Trustees' Office. We agreed to advise Peter Maughan and Jacob Peart to
return from Rock river whither they had been to work a coal mine; Reuben
McBride to put the Kirtland property in the best state possible, without
paying out money and to come to Nauvoo bye and bye. The bishops were
instructed to sell the steamboat Said of Iowa for what they could get for
it.
Elder Lorenzo Snow returned to Nauvoo and brought some money and
property and a six-pounder cannon on tithing.
Thursday, 10.----I met in council with Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson
Hyde, John Taylor, George A. Smith, Willard Richards and Amasa M. at
Nauvoo; remove the printing office into the Masonic Hall, and print the
Book of Doctrine and Covenants, Hymn Book and History as soon as possible.
A resolution was passed to disfellowship George J. Adams and Sam
Brannan, and a letter was written to Elder Parley P. Pratt on the subject.
The trustees of the Nauvoo House Association met and examined their
books.
Evening, the Twelve and bishops met at the Historian's Office and
prayed for rain; an abundant harvest; deliverance from our enemies and
blessings on the saints.
Friday, 11.----I met with the General Council at the Masonic Hall.
Saturday, 12.----The trustees of the Nauvoo House Association met.
The old police invited the Twelve and their families to a party at
the Masonic Hall, when a comfortable repast was partaken of. The police
performed a new piece entitled, `Father Marks' Return to Mormonism',
Evening, the U. S. deputy marshal for the district of Illinois
arrived in town with writs for myself and others.
Sunday, 13.----Meeting at the stand. Elders Heber C. Kimball and John
Taylor preached. Several officers attended meeting. Elder Taylor gave them
to understand that if they made an attempt to serve writs on him it would
cost them their lives, and said, if they wished to magnify the law and
make it honorable they should bring to justice the murderers of Joseph and
Hyrum, two of our best men, who were treacherously butchered while in the
custody of officers pledged for their safety; and that he would not submit
any more to such outrages on our lives and liberties, for under present
circumstances the law is only powerful to hold men still while the lawless
massacre them.
I attended the high priests' quorum meeting and gave much counsel.
The following letter from the governor was read:
LETTER OF GOVERNOR FORD ON THE ORGANIZATION OF TOWN GOVERNMENT WITHIN
NAUVOO `Springfield, April 8, 1 845. General Brigham Young: I have
received your letter of March the 31st and have attentively considered its
contents until this time. It is a matter of much delicacy and importance
to answer in the best manner the inquiries contained in it. A town
corporation under the general law, will evidently be insufficient for such
a place as Nauvoo. The general law does not extend your limits over a mile
square. This however may be remedied in some degree by making a number of
corporations to include the whole territory of the city. In this case
however you will be liable to a want of united action; and so many
governments though less efficient must be more expensive than a city
government.
I make no doubt also that you stand in need of a local court which
however you cannot have higher than that of a justice of the peace under
the present law. I would advise that you incorporate as many towns, one
mile square as will cover the city; and I make no doubt but that your
peaceable and orderly conduct, if continued, will be duly appreciated by
the next session of the legislature. By that time the storm of passion
produced by recent events will have subsided and I make no doubt a new
charter will be granted.
The powers under your town charters will be but limited it is true.
They are to make and execute ordinances not inconsistent with law and
the Constitution; to prevent and remove nuisances; to restrain and
prohibit gaming and disorderly conduct; to prevent the indecent exhibition
of horses; to license public shows; to sink and repair public wells; to
open and repair the streets and alleys and make pavements and sidewalks,
and to provide means to protect the town from injuries by fires, and to
levy a tax on real estate for town purposes. These powers are somewhat
better than none; and will give you some protection and provide somewhat
for the advancement and comfort of your city. And I would advise the
people to avail themselves of them until they can do better at another
session. As to a want of legal united action, on the part of so many
corporations in any common design for the good of the city; that must be
supplied at present by their voluntary concurrence, which can be brought
about by the influence of your leading citizens. There is no other way to
do it that I can think of. Whether you have that spirit of unity amongst
you which will enable them to do so, you know better than I can know,
As to your military affairs I have already written to the Hon. A. W.
Babbitt concerning that subject and I refer you to that letter for my
opinions at length as to your military organization. Since I wrote that
letter I have been advised of the movement at Carthage in relation to the
Hon. J. B. Backenstos, and also of the proceedings of the Carthagenians in
removing the cannon from McComb. As yet I am ignorant of their design in
this latter movement. Whether they intend it as a mere bravado, to keep up
agitation and excitement, until after the trials; or whether there is to
be a general move and renewal of the designs of last summer and fall I am
not aware. I have seen the Warsaw Signal which again preached expulsion
but beyond this I have seen nothing and know nothing of their designs. I
have on Saturday last dispatched a bold and trusty man to demand the arms
and cannon at Carthage and Warsaw. These events may for aught I know point
to a new war against you. If they do you cannot be organized as a part of
the state militia too soon,
I am aware that under such an organization there must be many persons
exempt from military duty; but in case of danger no doubt they will
voluntarily enroll themselves; there is no law to forbid their service;
their exemption is not a disqualification to serve, but a privilege not to
serve if they choose.
In case a mob should be raised against you it will be your privilege
and one of your highest duties to society and yourselves to resist it. But
you know your condition as a people. You know the prejudices which exist;
and the disposition of the public mind to believe evil of you. You will
therefore have to be cautious. Do nothing which will allow your opponents
to say that you have begun a war, Place them clearly in the wrong and keep
them so.
As to the great western measure if congress would grant you the land,
I think it would be good policy for your people to move to some far
distant country. Your religion is new and it surprises the people as any
great novelty in religion generally does. They cannot rise above the
prejudices excited by such novelty. However truly and sincerely your own
people may believe in it; the impression on the public mind everywhere is
that your leading men are impostors and rogues and that the others are
dupes and fools. This impression in the minds of the great mass is
sufficient to warrant them in considering and treating you as enemies and
outcasts; as men to be cherished and trusted in nothing, because in their
estimation some of you are deluded, and others designing in matters of
religion. If you can get off by yourselves you may enjoy peace; but
surrounded by such neighbors I confess that I do not foresee the time when
you will be permitted to enjoy quiet. I was informed by General Joseph
Smith last summer that he contemplated a removal west; and from what I
learned from him and others at that time I think if he had lived he would
have begun to move in the matter before this time. I would be willing to
exert all my feeble abilities and influence to further your views in this
respect if it was the wish of your people.
WESTERN MOVEMENT OF THE SAINTS SUGGESTED I would suggest a matter in
confidence, California now offers a field for the prettiest enterprise
that has been undertaken in modern time. It is but sparsely inhabited and
by none but the Indian of imbecile Mexican Spaniard. I have not inquired
enough to know how strong it is in men and means. But this we know that if
conquered from Mexico that country is so physically weak and morally
distracted that she could never send a force there to conquer it. Why
would it not be a pretty operation for your people to go out there, take
possession of and conquer a portion of the vacant country, and establish
an independent government of your own subject only to the laws of nations.
[?] You would remain there a long time before you would be disturbed by
the proximity of other settlements. If you conclude to do this your design
ought not to be known or otherwise it would become the duty of the United
States to prevent your emigration. But if you once cross the line of the
United States territories you would be in no danger of being interfered
with. I am very respectfully Your obedient Servant, [Signed] THOMAS
FORD.'
Sunday 13, (continued).----At four p. m., I met with the Quorum of
the Twelve.
Evening, in company with several brethren I visited the U. S. deputy
marshal at the Mansion; he was very polite."
CHAPTER XXX
AN APPEAL TO LYMAN WIGHT TO BE UNITED WITH THE TWELVE----LETTERS
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE GOVERNORS OF
THE RESPECTIVE STATES----LETTERS OF GOVERNOR FORD TO
STATE MILITARY LEADERS----IMPORTANT DOCTRINAL LETTER OF THE TWELVE
TO THE CHURCH
"Monday, April 14, 1845.----The public hands commenced the foundation
of the wall around the Temple block.
Elder Richards and I attended the deacons' meeting. The deacons have
become very efficient looking after the welfare of the saints; every part
of the city is watched with the strictest care, and whatever time of night
the streets are traveled at the corner of every block a deacon is found
attending to his duty.
Tuesday, 15.----Brother Heber C. Kimball, George A. Smith and myself
went to visit Philo Dibble, who was sick. We then went to Isaac Higbee's
office and attended a council in relation to the organization of a town
under the general incorporation act. Afterwards visited the arsenal and
Uncle John Smith who let Dr. Cannon have his house and lot in Macedonia to
cancel an obligation for four hundred dollars held by Dr. Cannon's wife
and her sister against myself and Brother Kimball. Proceeded to Bishop
Whitney's and administered to his wife who was sick; thence to the
Seventies' Hall and attended General Council, where the letter from
Governor Ford was read, If the advice of Governor Ford relative to
organizing city government under the state law, were complied with to the
letter, it would require twelve incorporations, as limited by the state
statutes to supply the place of the Nauvoo Charter and cover the limits of
the city with this species of complicated restricted town protection.
Wednesday, 16.----At sunset, Brother Heber C. Kimball and I laid
hands on Brother W. Richards who was sick. A small portion of the city was
incorporated as the town of Nauvoo and Alpheus Cutler, Orson Spencer,
Charles C. Rich, Theodore Turley and David Fullmer were appointed
trustees; they selected policemen, and appointed Hosea Stout captain, they
also appointed assessors, collectors and other officers,
Thursday, 17.---I met in council with Elders Orson Pratt, George A.
Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, C. C. Rich, and Samuel Bent, at Elder Richards'. We
wrote as follows;
LETTER TO LYMAN WIGHT ET AL: A PLEA FOR UNION "To Brother Lyman Wight
and All the Brethren With Him---- Greeting: We the Council of the Twelve
being assembled and having learned your present circumstances and
situation and also your future calculations with regard to your journey
west, cannot feel justified without giving you a word of counsel and
advice together with some information relative to our present prospects.
We are prospering in this city both temporally and spiritually.
Immigration continues to this city. Several hundred have arrived this
spring. Great peace and union prevail among all the saints. There were
many thousands present at our conference this month. All of our business
was performed with the utmost peace and union and not a dissenting voice.
We ale rushing the Temple ahead with a strong hand. Tithings come in for
the Temple more liberally than they have ever done before, and with but
few exceptions the saints are willing to give their all for the Temple if
required. There is every prospect of getting on the roof and finishing
some rooms by next autumn when we shall commence administering the
ordinances of endowment according to the commandment. We intend commencing
again on the Nauvoo House within a few days. All the saints feel spirited
and determined to carry out the measures of our martyred Prophet. There is
no prospect of any mob at present, and all things bid fair for peace and
prosperity.
And now, dear brethren, if you will hearken to our counsel you will
give up all idea of journeying west at present. If you go westward before
you have received your endowments in the Temple you will not prosper. And
when you meet with trouble and difficulty let no one say that the counsel
of the Twelve brought them into it, for we now in the name of the Lord
counsel and advise you not to go west at present. We desire, dear
brethren, that you should take hold with us and help us to accomplish the
building of the Lord's houses. Come brethren, be one with us, and let us
be agreed in all of our exertions to roll on the great wheel of the
kingdom. We forward this letter by Brother Bent. He will give you further
instructions relative to our proceedings and future calculations and we
hope you will receive his counsel and do accordingly and all shall be
well.'
Elder Samuel Bent was instructed to read the foregoing letter aloud
to all the company.
Brother Lyman Wight has one hundred and thirty souls numbering forty
able bodied men with him.
Evening, the Twelve and presiding bishops met and prayed,
Friday, 18.----As the workmen on the Temple had raised a large stone
about fifteen hundred pounds Weight, the chain broke and it fell fifty
feet, but without injury to the building or any person.
Sunday, 20.--Elders Orson Pratt, Phineas H. Young and I preached.
Afternoon, in council with the Twelve at the Seventies' Hall when four
elders were set apart for missions.
Monday, 21.----Elder Wm. W. Player put up the first star on the
southeast corner of the Temple. Elders Heber C. Kimball and William
Clayton were watching the progress of the stone towards its destination:
the `stars' will add much to the beauty of the Temple.
Tuesday, 12.----Attended General Council.
Wednesday, 23.----Brother George A. Smith spent the evening with me.
Thursday, 24.---Elders Phineas H. Young, Jonathan Dunham, Charles
Shumway, Lewis Dana and S. Tindale, started west on a mission to the
Lamanites, Evening, attended prayer meeting with the Twelve at Elder
Richards.
Realizing fully the insecurity of our position surrounded as we are
by mob violence, and the constitution and laws of Illinois being powerless
for our protection we deemed it wisdom, in General Council, to write as
follows to the President of the United States and to the governor of every
state in the Union except Missouri land Illinois:
LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE GOVERNORS OF THE
RESPECTIVE STATES `Nauvoo, Illinois, April 24, 1845. His Excellency James
K. Polk, President of the United States. Hon, Sir: Suffer us, Sir, in
behalf of a disfranchised and long afflicted people to prefer a few
suggestions for your serious consideration in hope of a friendly and
unequivocal response, at as early a period as may suit your convenience,
and the extreme urgency of the case seem to demand.
It is not our present design to detail the multiplied and aggravated
wrongs that we have received in the midst of a nation that gave us birth.
Most of us have long been loyal citizens of some one of these United
States over which you have the honor to preside, while a few only claim
the privileges of peaceable and lawful emigrants designing to make the
Union our permanent residence.
We say we are a disfranchised people. We are privately told by the
highest authorities of this state that it is neither prudent nor safe for
us to vote at the polls; still we have continued to maintain our right to
vote, until the blood of our best men has been shed, both in Missouri and
Illinois, with impunity.
You are doubtless somewhat familiar with the history of our
extermination from the state of Missouri, wherein scores of our brethren
were massacred; hundreds died through want and sickness occasioned by
their unparalleled sufferings; some millions of our property were
confiscated or destroyed. and some fifteen thousand souls fled for their
lives to the then hospitable and peaceful shores of Illinois; and that the
state of Illinois granted to us a liberal charter (for the term of
perpetual succession) under whose provision private rights have become
invested, and the largest city in the state has grown up, numbering about
twenty thousand inhabitants.
But Sir, the startling attitude recently assumed by the state of
Illinois forbids us to think that her designs are any less vindictive than
those of Missouri. She has already used the military of the state with the
executive at their head to coerce and surrender up our best men to
unparalleled murder, and that too under the most sacred pledges of
protection and safety. As a salvo for such unearthly perfidy and guilt she
told us through her highest executive officer, that the laws should be
magnified and the murderers brought to justice; but the blood of her
innocent victims had not been wholly wiped from the floor of the awful
arena, where the citizens of a sovereign state pounced upon two
defenseless servants of God our Prophet and our Patriarch, before the
senate of that state rescued one of the indicted actors in that mournful
tragedy from the sheriff of Hancock county and gave him an honorable seat
in her hall of legislation, and all who were indicted by the grand jury of
Hancock county for the murder of Generals Joseph and Hyrum Smith are
suffered to roam at large watching for further prey.
To crown the climax of those bloody deeds the state has repealed all
those chartered rights, by which we might have lawfully defended ourselves
against aggressors. If we defend ourselves hereafter against violence
whether it comes under the shadow of law or otherwise (for we have reason
to expect it both ways) we shall then be charged with treason and suffer
the penalty; and if we continue passive and non-resistant we must
certainly expect to perish, for our enemies have sworn it.
And here, Sir, permit us to state that General Joseph Smith, during
his short life, was arraigned at the bar of his country about fifty times
charged with criminal offenses, but was acquitted every time by his
country, his enemies, or rather his religious opponents, almost invariably
being his judges. And we further testify that as a people, we are law
abiding, peaceable, and without crime and we challenge the world to prove
the contrary; and while other less cities in Illinois have had special
courts instituted to try their criminals, we have been stripped of every
source of arraigning marauders and murderers who are prowling around to
destroy us except the common magistracy.
With these facts before you, Sir, will you write to us without delay
as a father and friend and advise us what to do. We are members of the
same great confederacy. Our fathers, nay some of us, have fought and bled
for our country, and we love her Constitution dearly.
In the name of Israel's God and by virtue of multiplied ties of
country and kindred, we ask your friendly interposition in our favor.
Will it be too much for us to ask you to convene a special session of
congress and furnish us an asylum, where we can enjoy our rights of
conscience and religion unmolested? Or, will you in a special message to
that body, when convened recommend a remonstrance against such unhallowed
acts of oppression and expatriation as this people have continued to
receive from the states of Missouri and Illinois? Or, will you favor us by
your personal influence and by your official rank? Or will you express our
views concerning what is called the `Great Western Measure' of colonizing
the Latter-day Saints in Oregon, the northwestern territory, or some
location remote from the states, where the hand of oppression shall not
crush every noble principle and extinguish every patriotic feeling?
And now, Honored Sir, having reached out our imploring hands to you,
with deep solemnity, we would importune with you as a father, a friend, a
patriot and the head of a mighty nation, by the Constitution of American
Liberty, by the blood of our fathers who have fought for the independence
of this Republic, by the blood of the martyrs which has been shed in our
midst, by the wailings of the widows and orphans, by their murdered
fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, wives and children, by the
dread of immediate destruction from secret combinations now forming for
our overthrow, and by every endearing tie that binds man to man and
renders life bearable, and that too, for aught we know for the last time,
that you will lend your immediate aid to quell the violence of mobocracy,
and exert your influence to establish us as a people in our civil and
religious rights where we now are, or in some part of the United States,
or at some place remote therefrom, where we may colonize in peace and
safety as soon as circumstances will permit.
We sincerely hope that your future prompt measure towards us will be
dictated by the best feelings that dwell in the bosom of humanity, and the
blessings of a grateful people and of many ready to perish shall come upon
you. We are Sir, with great respect, Your Obedient Servants, [Signed]
BRIGHAM YOUNG, WILLARD RICHARDS, ORSON SPENCER, ORSON PRATT, W. W. PHELPS,
A. W. BABBITt, J. M. BERNHISEL, Committee in behalf of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints at Nauvoo, Illinois.'
`P.S. As many of our communications, postmarked at Nauvoo have failed
of their destination and the mails around us have been intercepted by our
enemies, we shall send this to some distant office by the hand of a
special messenger.'
The letters to the governors were the same as the above with slight
requisite alterations.
Saturday, 26.----In company with Brothers Heber C. Kimball, George A.
Smith, Amasa M. Lyman, and others I attended Brother George D. Watt's
phonographic class from nine a. m. till noon.
Sunday, 27.----Elders A. W. Babbitt and John Taylor preached at the
stand, I met with the brethren of the Twelve at Elder W. Richards': we
revised the conference minutes.
Evening, the Twelve Apostles, Presidents John Smith and Joseph Young
met for prayer.
Monday, 28.----In council with Brothers H. C. Kimball, John Taylor
and N. K. Whitney; we read letters from Parley P. Pratt in relation to his
movements in the east; he thinks that he has influence with President Polk
and other leading men of the nation, who are determined secretly to
control the officers of Illinois so as to induce them to do away with mobs
and mobocracy.
Tuesday, 29.----Evening, I attended General Council: Elder Samuel
Bent reported the result of his visit to Lyman Wight's camp.
Thursday, May 1, 1845.----Accompanied by Brothers Heber C. Kimball,
Newel K. Whitney, Alpheus Cutler and Wm. Clayton I rode to the river and
bought lumber to the amount of sixteen hundred dollars. Brother Kimball
and I gathered teams to draw it to the Temple. Evening, attended prayer
meeting.
Saturday, 3.----Brother Ellis M. Sanders let the Trustees of the
Temple have one thousand dollars in cash.
At a conference held in Batavia, N. Y., four branches containing
seventeen elders, one priest and forty-two members were represented: Elder
Winslow Farr presided.
Sunday, 4.----I attended meeting. Elder Orson Spencer and I preached.
I dined at Brother Willard Richards' in company with Elders Kimball,
Smith, Taylor and our wives. I met with the Twelve and wrote letters to
Elders Parley P. Pratt and E. T. Benson, notifying the latter of his
release and of Willard Snow's appointment as his successor in
Massachusetts.
William Smith and family arrived from the east.
Elder Wilford Woodruff attended a conference in Blackburn, near
Preston, England, and dedicated a new hall to worship; full house and
interesting time.
Monday, 5.----Attended council of the Twelve at my house, on the case
of Samuel Brannan and matters in the east. William Smith was present and
expressed his satisfaction with the organization of the church.
Tuesday, 6.----The following was published in the Nauvoo Neighbor:
A VOICE FROM NAUVOO `Whereas it is currently reported in various
parts of this county, and in the adjoining counties, as we are creditably
informed, that it is our intention to throng Carthage during the ensuing
session of the circuit court of this county, for the purpose of awing or
overruling the court so as to procure a conviction of certain men of the
crime of murdering Joseph and Hyrum Smith; and whereas such reports are
calculated to awaken an unjust prejudice against an innocent people: and
whereas our enemies have jumped upon this stratagem as a hobby to raise an
excitement against us; and whereas many honest and law abiding men are
liable to be misled and imposed upon by these false, malicious, and
envious reports; and whereas the governor of our state has solemnly
pledged himself to us that the laws should be executed in justice in the
premises; and whereas we did at that time pledge ourselves as a people to
patiently wait their execution, and the action of the government; and
whereas it is reported that certain individuals are trying to raise an
excitement on the editorials of the Nauvoo Neighbor.
We therefore, in behalf of the church we represent do hereby publish
to all men, that as a people and a council, we have no knowledge of the
Neighbor until we read it as do others, and therefore cannot be
responsible for it, and all we ask is the same consideration in the public
mind, as is exercised towards the editorials of other papers in our land.
And we further declare to all men, that as a people we are still
determined to abide our pledge, and await the action of the executive and
judiciary, and tarry at home and attend to our own business as usual
during the sitting of the court except such as have lawful business with
the court and are required to be in attendance, and hope that all men will
do the same, and we wish, decidedly wish, that those whose business it is
to keep the peace during court, should do it, and let us as a people
alone, for we do not wish to be brought in collision with our neighbors
and we are determined to abide the law.
In behalf of a General Council of the authorities of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at Nauvoo. [Signed] WILLARD RICHARDS,
Committee.'
Evening, I attended General Council, when it was agreed that letters
should be written to Governor Ford and J. B. Hoge, M. C., in relation to
the threats of the mob; and to take measures for the brethren to hold
themselves in readiness for defense in case of an attack, and to pursue a
medium course avoiding extremes that might raise an excitement in the
country.
The Twelve met with the old police at the Masonic Hall to make
preparations to prevent our surprise by the mob.
Wednesday, 7.----Brother Orson Hyde reported that a mob of about two
hundred men were collected at Appanoose who had prevented some of the
brethren from going to work on the Island. The mob captain told the
brethren that they had arranged matters so as to cut off all communication
with the governor.
The officers of the Legion met at the Masonic Hall.
Evening, attended prayer meeting with the Twelve, N. K. Whitney, and
Levi Richards.
Thursday, 8.----I called at Elder Richards' office at ten a. m., and
remained till five p. m., when Elder Richards accompanied me to Elder
Kimball's.
Evening, met and prayed with the Twelve.
The council wrote to Elder Woodruff as follows:
COUNCIL'S LETTER TO ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF---ENGLAND `It is a part of
our religion to support any government, wherever we may be, that will
protect us in common with other citizens; for, to this end governments are
instituted; and as England has ever been true and faithful to us, as a
people in common with others, the elders cannot be too particular to
enjoin on all the saints to yield obedience to the laws, and respect every
man in his office, letting politics wholly, entirely and absolutely alone,
and preach the principles of the gospel of salvation; for to this end were
they ordained and sent forth. We are for peace, we want no contention with
any person or government, and should war commence between England and
America, it will probably be wisdom for you and all the American elders to
return immediately home, and leave all parties to fight their own battles.
* *
The stones are in rapid progress for the new font [i. e. of the
Temple], The wall for the foundation of the pickets or railing around the
Temple block, and the block west of the Temple (to be in one) is also
commenced. The bricks are making for the Nauvoo House; one hundred and
forty thousand feet of pine timber was received last Saturday for our
public buildings; another raft is expected soon and we anticipate they
will be enclosed early in the fall. Immigration has been greater than
usual this season; perfect peace and union prevail. It is also a time of
health.
We have thought it would be very agreeable to the feelings of the
English saints to furnish a bell for the Temple, if this is their pleasure
you can forward it the first conveyance, and we will have it hung as the
building is going up. We are but little acquainted with the weight of
bells; we have thought of two thousand pounds weight, but we leave this to
your judgment; we want one that can be heard night or day.
We forward you with this in a package a letter of attorney
constituting you an agent to transact all necessary business for the
church in the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and on the continent of
Europe.'
Friday, 9.----I met with the Twelve in council, also Elders N. K.
Whitney and W. W. Phelps and J. B. Backenstos.
Saturday, 10.----Brother George A. Smith called upon me this morning
and I accompanied him to the Historian's Office where we read and revised
Church History.
Afternoon, met in General Council.
Sunday, 11.----Elders William and George A. Smith and I preached at
the stand. Evening, attended prayer meeting.
Elder Woodruff attended a quarterly conference at Clitheroe, England,
and ordained one elder and several to the lesser priesthood. He had an
interesting and affectionate time with those churches built up by Elder
Heber C. Kimball on his first mission to England.
Monday, 12.---Evening, with Brothers Heber C. Kimball, W. Richards
and George A. Smith at Brother Edward Hunter's revising history.
Tuesday, 13.----With Elders Heber C. Kimball, W. Richards and George
A. Smith reading and revising Church History at Brother Edward Hunter's
where we had retired to keep out of the way of writs reported to have been
issued against us.
Governor Ford wrote the following letters;
LETTERS FROM GOVERNOR FORD TO GENERAL DEMING `Executive Department,
Springfield, Ill, May 13, 1845. M. R. Deming, Brigadier-General, Illinois
Militia. Sir: I have received information which I do not know whether to
credit or not, that certain persons in Hancock county are preparing a
force, with a view to prevent the witnesses on the part of the state in
the murder cases, now pending, from attending court at the term to be held
this month. If such should be the case, and if it should become necessary
to protect the court, the jurors or the witnesses whose duty it may be to
attend; or to secure the custody of prisoners, you are hereby fully
authorized and empowered to call out and employ a sufficient force of
militia from your brigade for that purpose. This order to include the
militia of Nauvoo. [Signed] THOMAS FORD, Governor and Commander-in-Chief,'
`Springfield, Ill., May 13, 1845. Brigadier-General M. R. Deming :
Sir: I herewith send you authority to call out the militia of your brigade
if necessary. The defendants in the murder cases have written here for
Logan to defend them; and it is understood here that they do not intend to
create any disturbance. The signs are not yet sufficiently certain to
authorize me now to send militia there. I have employed Lamborn to assist
in the prosecution. You will advise with him. If the defendants should
organize a force to prevent a fair trial and keep off the witnesses I
think it would be best to get the cases continued and at another term it
will be so manifest that a force will be necessary to protect the court
that I will be justified in sending one. But if at present I send one I
will be laughed at and it will be universally believed that no necessity
existed for it and that I have put the state to expense for nothing. If
however you see that force is to be used and should think it most
advisable to meet the crisis at this time, I give you power to employ your
whole brigade including the Mormons of course. Upon the whole I think that
they are the most fit material to be called on as their fidelity in doing
their duty during the pending trials may be more thoroughly relied on than
any troops I could send there. I am most respectfully your obedient
servant, [Signed] THOMAS FORD.'
GOVERNOR FORD'S LETTER TO A. W. BABBITT---VACILLATION `Springfield,
May 13, 1845. Hon. A. W. Babbitt: Dear Sir: I received your favor from
Galena last evening. If I thought that I could have the least influence in
preventing a disturbance in Hancock county I would cheerfully go over
there. My opinion however is that my presence there, and that of Mr. Hoge
would only aggravate matters. I have employed Mr. Lamborn to assist the
prosecution and have sent a military order to General Deming giving him
authority to call out his whole brigade, including the Mormons of course
if necessary to protect the court, the witnesses, the jurors; or to secure
the custody of prisoners. He will use this order with discretion. You can
certainly raise a force in Hancock amply sufficient to overpower any mob
forces which can be got together. The defendants have written here for
counsel, and it is universally understood here, that they do not intend to
resist. At any rate the signs are not so definite as to authorize me now
to call the militia. If I were to do so, the people would be made to
believe all over the state that there was no necessity for it, and that
the public had been corruptly put to this expense to serve the Mormon
vote, Besides I very much question whether I could raise a force now, when
there is so little apparent necessity for it; and I also question whether
any force which I could send could be relied on to act efficiently. You
suggest in your letter that if there shall be a disturbance the distance
to this place where I reside, would prevent a messenger from arriving
until after the event had occurred. Nearly the same thing would happen if
I were at Carthage. If I were to call on the militia (other than the
Mormons) I would have to send back an order to this side of the Illinois
river before I could begin to find any that I could rely on. It is evident
to my mind that it would not do to call on any of the militia of the
military tract. They would either stand idle or join the enemy. If a force
shall really become necessary I can think of none which can be embodied so
soon, or who would be likely to act with the requisite zeal and fidelity
as the Mormons themselves. General Deming has my orders for this purpose;
and as I do not pretend to be a military man I do not see why he cannot
act as efficiently with this force in my absence as if I were present.
I would make another suggestion: Possibly, if a mob should be
organized to keep away the witnesses it may be the best for the
prosecution to move for a continuance of the indictments grounded on the
absence of testimony setting forth all the circumstances calculated to
prevent a fair trial. And if the case shall have to be continued on
account of a mob, the necessity will then be apparent to all the world for
a force at the next term. But until such a necessity is manifest it is the
very worst policy to be making frequent calls of the militia. The very
idea that the necessity for protecting the Mormons and putting the state
to expense for that purpose continually exists, creates a prejudice
against them and a strong desire everywhere of getting them out of the
state. Besides the mob party have this advantage that if I send a force
there capable of overpowering them they can and will swear that they never
had the least intention of creating the least possible disturbance. And
what is more they will make the whole people of the state believe it. They
will believe in such a case that I
have been humbugged; and humbugged by the Mormons. You may well
conceive what a prejudice this impression will create. Upon the whole I am
decidedly of opinion that the local militia under the command of General
Deming ought to be relied on; that even this force ought not to be called
out until it is manifestly apparent that it is needed for the protection
of the law against actual violence and that in fact it might be better to
suffer a continuance of the prosecutions if it will be the means of
shewing to the world what the defendants and their friends will do if not
prevented. I have made these same suggestions to Mr. Lamborn and General
Deming. I am most respectfully, Your Obedient Servant, [Signed] THOMAS
FORD.'
Wednesday, 14.----Continued at Brother Edward Hunter's as yesterday;
my health, and that of Brother Richards poor; but we read and revised
history all day.
Thursday, 15.----I was quite unwell, Brother George A. Smith called
in the forenoon and read the Neighbor to me: Brothers W. Richards and
Amasa M. Lyman sick.
Fast day: all works were stopped. Meetings were held in the several
wards and donations made to the bishops for the poor; enough was
contributed to supply the wants of the poor until harvest. Evening, met at
Brother Richards' for prayer.
Friday, 16.----I spent the day at Brother Hunter's in company with
Brothers Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, George A. Smith and N. K.
Whitney revising history: Thomas Bullock read for us. I wrote a letter to
the architect directing him to place a stone in the west end (front) of
the Temple with the inscription `Holiness to the Lord' thereon. Isaac
Chase agreed to let the church have one thousand dollars. Elder Orson
Pratt called and reported that four hundred men had gone up the opposite
side of the river.
Saturday, 17.----Revising history as yesterday, with the addition of
Brother John Taylor: Brother Hunter and family were very kind to us. We
wrote an epistle to the saints in Nauvoo dated at Point Clear and directed
the same to Brother Orson Pratt.
Sunday, 18.----Elder Orson Pratt preached to the saints; also read
the following epistle:
GENERAL LETTER OF THE TWELVE TO THE CHURCH FROM THEIR RETIREMENT
Point Clear, Steamboat under way, one o clock Saturday morning, May 17,
1845. To the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the City of
Joseph Greeting: Beloved Brethren: Our whole souls bless you; and we are
happy in the privilege of communicating to you a few thoughts. Much more
would we rejoice were it our privilege to be in your midst the coming
Sabbath and tell you all that is in our hearts; but we are pilgrims in a
world of sorrow and woe. In our journeyings to proclaim the gospel and
bring about salvation to the honest in heart, God is with us and we
prosper; though weary, we are not cast down nor discouraged, for we know
that victory is with the upright.
We are happy to hear of the great union and love manifested at your
recent fast, which also the Spirit bore witness of to us, and of your
liberality towards the poor, and may the abundance which you have so
liberally contributed in your penury in dealing your bread to the hungry
be the omen of an abundant harvest of the fruits of the earth into your
granaries the present and all future seasons.
Since we commenced our journey we have discovered some letters from
Brother Joseph Smith to Bishop Partridge from which we extract the
following for your edification and instruction:
MESSAGE OF NEWLY DISCOVERED LETTERS OF THE PROPHET ON CONSECRATION `I
proceed to answer your questions concerning the consecration of property.
First, it is not right to condescend to very great particulars in taking
inventories. The fact is this, a man is bound by the law of the church, to
consecrate to the bishop, before he can be considered a legal heir to the
kingdom of Zion; and this too without constraint; and unless he does this,
he cannot be acknowledged before the Lord, on the church book: therefore
to condescend to particulars, I will tell you that every man must be his
own judge how much he should receive, and how much he should suffer to
remain in the hands of the bishop. I speak of those who consecrate more
than they need for the support of themselves and their families.
`The matter of consecration must be done by the mutual-consent of
both parties; for to give the bishop power to say how much every man shall
have, and he be obliged to comply with the bishop's judgment is giving to
the bishop more power than a king has; and upon the other hand, to let
every man say how much he needs and the bishop be obliged to comply with
his judgment is to throw Zion into confusion and make a slave of the
bishops, The fact is, there must be a balance or equilibrium of power,
between the bishop and the people; and thus harmony and good-will will be
preserved among you.'
THE PRINCIPLE OF FASTS DEFINED Let this be an ensample to all saints,
and there will never be any lack for bread: When the poor are starving,
let those who have, fast one day and give what they otherwise would have
eaten to the bishops for the poor, and every one will abound for a long
time; and this is one great and important principle of fasts approved of
the Lord. And so long as the saints will all live to this principle with
glad hearts and cheerful countenances they will always have an abundance.
We will give you another extract from the same author in a letter to
Elder Phelps when in Zion:
FATE OF THE SONS oF PERDITION NOT REVEALED `Say to the brethren
Hulets and to all others that the Lord never authorized them to say that
the devil, or his angels, or the son of perdition should ever be restored;
for their state of destiny was not revealed to man, is not revealed, nor
ever shall be revealed save to those who are made partakers thereof;
consequently those who teach this doctrine have not received it of the
Spirit of the Lord. Truly Brother Oliver declared it to be the doctrine of
devils. We, therefore, command that this doctrine be taught no more in
Zion. We sanction the decision of the bishop and his council in relation
to this doctrine being a bar of communion.'
Let this extract remind the elders and all saints that a wise head
keeps a still tongue. And that it is far better many times for men, yes
and women too to forget all they know, than to tell all they know. And
better still to forget than to tell some great things which they do not
know. Probably the elders in Zion know about as much about the devil's
being redeemed, as the elders know about the great God of the Gods, of the
God of this world, which some have spoken of, concerning which they know
nothing. There are Lords many and Gods many. But who are they, and what
their relation to us, or this earth? Who can answer? This is a subject not
revealed, therefore let the elders be silent concerning it. And who knows
anything about our suffering in this world for sins committed in a former
state of existence? Let him who had the answer by revelation speak: and if
no such revelation exists, let this subject also live where it belongs in
eternal forgetfulness to the ignorant until they shall be instructed from
the right source.
Wisdom is justified of her children, therefore beloved brethren be
wise and live up to the holy religion which you profess---to mind your own
business and let your neighbors alone. Plant your gardens and till your
farms; acknowledge your heavenly Father in all things; continue to raise
up his house; walk humbly before him; watch and pray without ceasing; for
ye know not what hour the thief will come. But be ye sure of this the
thief will never come while he sees the good man of the house watching for
him.
If ye are one, says Jesus, then are ye mine, and whatsoever ye shall
ask the Father in my name he will give it unto you. Then brethren continue
to be one and ask unceasingly and God will deliver you from all your
enemies, break the oppressor's power and continue peace in the beloved
city. Brethren pray for us that we may be prospered on our journey, and be
returned to the saints in peace and safety when we shall have completed
our mission. We bless you and praying the God of our fathers, Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob to bless you with every blessing even unto everlasting
life and salvation in his presence in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.'
Sunday, 18. (continued).----At five p. m., the Presidents of
Seventies met. President Joseph Young spoke emphatically as to putting
down wickedness and evil known to exist among members of the quorums.
Evening, attended council and prayer meeting with the Twelve at
Brother Richards': adjourned at 2 a. m.
Elder Woodruff attended a conference at Carlisle, England, one
hundred and sixty-five members were represented including thirty-seven
officers.
A conference was held in Ilion, Herkimer county, New York, fifty-two
members, nine elders and two priests were represented.
Monday, 19.----Associated with Brothers Heber C. Kimball, John
Taylor, and George A. Smith, I spent the day at Brother Robert Pierce's;
Brother Pierce had gone to Carthage as a juror, his family made us very
comfortable. Brothers W. Richards and George R. Smith went to Brother
Elijah Fordham's.
Many brethren went to Carthage to attend the trial of the murderers
of Joseph and Hyrum Smith: George D. Watt attended court and reported the
proceedings.
Tuesday, 20.----With the brethren named I remained at Brother
Pierce's; Willard Richards and George A. Smith joined us. We read and
revised fifty-seven pages of History of Joseph Smith from Book `B':
Brothers Amasa M. Lyman and others called to see us.
Wednesday, 21 .----Brother Richards went to Brother Fordham's.
Brother George A. [Smith] visited the families of the Twelve who were from
home and spent the afternoon with Brother Richards. At nine p. m.,
Brothers H. C. Kimball, J. Taylor, G. A. Smith, W. H. Kimball, Bishop Garn
and I called at Brother Richards' and remained till midnight.
The following letter was sent to Josiah Lamborn, attorney-general of
Illinois [by George A. and John Smith]:
REVIEW OF DIFFICULTIES ATTENDANT UPON COLLECTION OF EVIDENCE FOR THE
PROSPECTIVE TRIAL OF THOSE CHARGED WITH THE MURDER FOR THE PROPHET AND
PATRIARCH JOSEPH AND HYRUM SMITH `Sir: We are this evening informed by Mr.
Scott that it is your wish as prosecuting attorney vs. the murderers of
the Generals Smith that the Mormons should hunt up the witnesses in the
case, and that Mr. Murray McConnell had conveyed the idea that there was a
committee in the county whose business it was to collect and arrange the
testimony against the day of trial and that said committee are supposed to
be Mormons, etc. etc.
Now, Sir, in behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints; or, if you choose, the Mormon fraternity, we beg leave to state to
you, what has been often reiterated by us, and which is a well known fact,
both to our people and the state, viz: that the difficulty causing the
pending trials is not between the Mormons and anti- Mormons; nor between
the Mormons and the murderers; but it is between the state and the
prisoners or offenders.
The facts are, the Messrs. Smiths were murdered while in the charge
of the state, relying on the plighted faith of the state for protection,
and not in the presence of Mormon witnesses, for the Mormons were not
there, but doubtless in the presence of many who were not Mormons.
To show our loyalty to the institutions of our country and preserve
peace in the county, as a people, we pledged ourselves to abide the
operations of the law as directed by the proper authorities of the
commonwealth; and that we would abide the decisions of the court, not
taking vengeance into our own hands, (as was then feared by some) or
commencing prosecutions, to which we have strictly adhered, and intend
still to adhere, that our pledge may be honorably redeemed in the sight of
all men, although we have been strongly solicited to enter the field of
prosecution, and that, too, by the state or her agents: for instance when
Mr. McConnell was engaged in preparation for the prosecution he came to
Nauvoo and strongly solicited the Mormons to come out as complainants and
assist in procuring witnesses, etc.; but we replied that we had had
nothing to do with the affair, and wanted nothing to do with it; and for
us to enlist in attempting to bring the murderers to justice, no matter
how legal in our movements it would be construed into a persecution, or a
desire to pick a quarrel on our part, which we were and still are
determined to avoid even every appearance of evil, and cut off every
occasion of our enemies, or of those who are ready to seize upon any
pretext to make us trouble.
We are decidedly for peace, and we ever have been and as the murders
were committed while the murdered were in immediate charge of the state,
all we ask is, that the state will prosecute the case to final judgment,
and redeem her pledge, as we have ours; or if she choose to abandon the
prosecution we shall submit peaceably; although, for public good, we would
prefer that justice should take place.
We are unacquainted with the statute which suffers indicted murderers
to roam at large month after month without arrest; or, after delivery, or
surrender, to run at pleasure before trial, and we know not what other
similar laws we might come in contact with, and be liable to break to our
own endangering or disadvantage, should we attempt to have anything to do
with the case in question.
It is reported to us, true or false we know not, that the sheriff of
Hancock county and his deputies have been forbidden by the court to act in
pending trials, and that the jurors have been discharged without
impaneling. If this be true we are unacquainted with the statutes in the
case and have nothing to say.
When Mr. McConnell was here last fall, at his earnest solicitation,
we collected all the information in our possession and presented the same
to him, supposing he would prosecute the case to final judgment. He took
minutes at the time and probably has them now, if he has not handed them
over, of which you must be acquainted, better than we, and of which we did
not preserve minutes: we know of no new information since that period.
We were happy to hear that the trials had been committed to your able
charge, and anticipated that you would have made us a visit before the
sitting of the court; and we still anticipate that after court you will
make us a visit, that we may have the pleasure of a more general
acquaintance among our citizens; and we feel confident that such a visit
would be highly appreciated by our friend, General Young, with whom we
understand you are acquainted.
We shall be ever ready to assist in favoring the ends of right so far
as we can do it and not give any occasion of excitement which would be
detrimental to public peace.
We are Sir, Most Respectfully Your Servants [Signed] GEORGE A. SMITH,
JOHN SMITH.'
Thursday, 22.----Elder Kimball and I spent the day at Brother Parley
P. Pratt's.
Caroline Grant, wife of Elder Wm. Smith, died, aged thirty years and
four months.
Evening, I attended council and prayer meeting.
Friday, 23.----Forenoon, Elder Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards,
John Taylor, George A. Smith, John E. Page and myself at Brother Taylor's.
Afternoon, Samuel Brannan arrived from New York and in company with Wm.
Smith visited us.
Brother John Kay was engaged in drilling out a six-pounder cannon and
preparing it for service.
Evening, in council with the Twelve and Bishop Whitney: the improper
course of Wm. Smith was the subject of conversation.
Saturday, 24.----A large number of the saints assembled to witness
the laying of the capstone on the southeast corner of the Temple. Of the
Twelve there were present, besides myself, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor,
Willard Richards, Amasa M. Lyman, George A. Smith, John E. Page, Orson
Hyde and Orson Pratt, also Newel K. Whitney and George Miller the
Presiding Bishops and Trustees- in-Trust, Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds
Cahoon, Temple Committee, William Clayton, Temple recorder, John Smith,
patriarch and president of the stake and several members of the high
council. The brass band arranged themselves and played the `Nightingale'.
At six o'clock and eight minutes a. m., Brother Wm. Player commenced
spreading the mortar, perfect silence prevailing; the stone being lifted
to its place. I stepped on the same and fitted it precisely to its
position with the large beetle, at twenty-two minutes past six a. m., the
capstone was pronounced set; the band played the `Capstone March' composed
for the occasion by Wm. Pitt. I said:
`The last stone is now laid upon the Temple and I pray the Almighty
in the name of Jesus to defend us in this place and sustain us until the
Temple is finished and we have all got our endowments.'
The whole congregation then shouted, `Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, to
God and the Lamb, Amen, Amen, and Amen,' which was repeated a second and
third time. I concluded by saying, So let it be, O Lord Almighty. This is
the seventh day of the week or the Jewish Sabbath. It is the day on which
the Almighty finished his work and rested from his labors; we have
finished the walls of the Temple and we may rest today from our labors.'
I dismissed the workmen for the day and requested them to spend the
day in giving thanks to God; and dismissed the congregation, and with the
brethren of the Twelve retired to our places of retreat, out of the way of
constables and officers who are prowling around the city from Carthage.
The morning was wet and cold, but those present were highly
interested with the morning's services, and felt well in consideration
that the walls of the Temple were completed, notwithstanding the
prophecies of our enemies and apostates.
Elder Orson Pratt preached the funeral discourse of Caroline, the
daughter of Joshua and Thalia Grant and wife of Elder Wm. Smith, to a
large assembly at the stand; her remains were deposited in the tomb of
Joseph: she has left two children to mourn her loss.
At three p. m., a council of the Twelve met at Elder Taylor's and
took into consideration the case of Elder Samuel Brannan who had been
disfellowshiped; an investigation was entered into and Elder Brannan
introduced testimony to prove his innocence of the charges made against
him: he was restored to fellowship.
The brethren present expressed their feelings towards Elder Wm. Smith
to which he responded. The Twelve then laid their hands upon him and
ordained him to be a patriarch to the whole church: there was a warm
interchange of good feeling between William Smith and the quorum.
Sunday, 25.----Elder John E. Page preached at the stand. The
Presidents of Seventies met and preached to each other. Evening, the
Twelve and others met for prayer.
Monday, 26.----I met with several of the Twelve and others in the
Phonographic School at Brother Richards'. The Twelve and Trustees met in
council at Bishop Miller's and wrote a long communication to Elder Parley
P. Pratt.
Tuesday, 27.----I received a respectful letter from Governor Drew in
reply to our Memorial to him as governor of Arkansas; stating his
inability to protect us in the state of Arkansas, and suggesting the
propriety of our settling in Oregon, California, Nebraska or some other
country where we will be out of the reach of our persecutors."
CHAPTER XXXI
SUNDRY EVENTS GROUPED TOGETHER LOOKING TO AN UNDERSTANDING WITH
THE STATE GOVERNMENT AT NAUVOO---HARVEST FEAST AT NAUVOO
"Wednesday, May 28, 1845.----This morning the workmen commenced to
raise the attic story of the Temple.
Thursday, 29.----Evening, met at Brother Richards' for prayer in
company with Brothers Heber C. Kimball, Orson Hyde, Orson Pratt, Willard
Richards, John Taylor, Amasa M. Lyman, N. K. Whitney, George Miller,
Joseph Young and Levi Richards. Prayed that the Lord would overrule the
movements of Wm. Smith who is endeavoring to ride the Twelve down; also
that the Lord would overrule the proceedings of the mob so that we may
dwell in peace until the Temple is finished.
The court at Carthage heard the lawyer's pleas on the defense in the
case the state of Illinois vs. the murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith;
the counsel for the defense exhibited a cruel and mendacious spirit.
Calvin A. Warren of Quincy made the most inflammatory speech.
Friday, 30.----I attended council with the Twelve at Elder Taylor's.
The jury at Carthage brought in a verdict of acquittal in favor of
Levi Williams, Thomas C. Sharp, Mark Aldrich, Jacob C. Davis and William
N. Grover ----as we had anticipated: the court, attorneys, jury and
bystanders being all fully satisfied of their guilt.
Brother George D. Watt attended the trial and took lengthy minutes
from which the following is extracted:
GEORGE D. WATT'S REPORT OF THE CARTHAGE TRIAL `District Court of
Illinois, Carthage, Hancock County, State of Illinois, May 19, 1845. The
Hon. Richard M. Young of Quincy on the bench. The forenoon was spent in
organizing. Adjourned at twelve p. m.
Court met at two p. m.
Colonel Levi Williams, Thomas C. Sharp, editor of the Warsaw Signal,
Jacob C. Davis, state senator, Mark Aldrich and William N. Grover were
held to bail with each other for sureties, in the sum of one thousand
dollars each, to make their appearance in court each day of the term; they
were indicted for the murder of Joseph Smith at Carthage jail on the
twenty-seventh day of June, 1844.
The court decided that their case would be tried on Wednesday
morning, May 21st.
Accordingly the sheriff notified the witnesses for both parties to
make their appearance on said morning at seven o'clock; the court then
proceeded to other business.
Wednesday Morning, May 21st. Court opened.
The names of the counsel for the defense are as follows: William A.
Richardson, O. H. Browning, Calvin A. Warren.
Josiah Lamborn, Esq. for the people.
Colonel Wm. A. Richardson presented before the court two affidavits
drawn out by the defendants to quash the array. The charge of prejudice,
consanguinity and partiality was preferred by these affidavits against the
county commissioners, the sheriff and his deputies in the arrangement of
the present panel of jurors; that their design was to hurt and prejudice
the present trial, and thus endanger the lives of the defendants. On these
grounds the defendants pleaded for the quashing of the array. After
referring to the statute to show the provision made for such a proceeding
he submitted to the court.
The attorney for the people then arose and made the following
observations, viz.: That the doctrine advanced by Colonel Richardson was a
novelty to him, as the affidavits of the defendants predicated no charge
against the present panel of jurors, either individually or collectively;
he showed from the statute that the array could not be quashed upon the
above principle, neither did he believe the officers of the county could
be discharged upon a mere exparte affidavit, but the charges ought to be
made and affidavits filed and a trial had before the court. He said it was
the first time he had heard of such a proceeding to quash the array, at
the same time nothing alleged against it individually or collectively.
He showed that the statute referred to by Colonel Richardson applied
to civil and not criminal cases. He could not suffer the idea of having
the panel quashed by the discharge of all the officers of the county upon
a mere exparte affidavit, and that too made by five men indicted for
murder. He asked for a precedent in all the experience of this state or
any other in criminal cases; he defied them to produce a single case.
Mr. Browning, for the defense, said, that although there had not been
a precedent in the United States for such a proceeding, the reason is
there has never been a case like this in the United States, He contended
that such a proceeding is fully warranted by the English statutes and the
statutes of the United States, that in a case like this the county
commissioners, the sheriff and his deputies can be discharged, and in
their place can be appointed elisors for the purpose of choosing another
jury.
The court ruled that the jury be discharged and elisors appointed.
The court then adjourned.
Thursday, May 22nd, The court appointed Thomas H. Owen and William D.
Abernathy elisors and they selected a full panel of jurors.
Four panels of jurors were successively called and out of the ninety-
six men twelve were selected as a jury satisfactory to the defense.
Mr. Lamborn prosecuted before this jury in a manner which showed
clearly to every bystander the certainty of the guilt of the prisoners who
were honorably acquitted. Mr. Frank Worrell, who had command of the guard
at the jail at the time of the massacre, being summoned as a witness, and
being asked by the prosecuting attorney if the guard had their guns loaded
with blank cartridges at the time of the attack on the jail refused to
answer, assigning as a reason that he could not without incriminating
himself,'
The Nauvoo Neighbor has the following: THE CARTHAGE ASSASSINS `On
Friday last the trial terminated, and the prisoners were acquitted in the
case of Joseph Smith. This accords with the vote of the city council last
July, that when the law failed to atone for the blood of our Prophet and
Patriarch shed at Carthage on the 27th of June last by a mob, we would
refer the case to God for a righteous judgment, and we have never varied
from that intention. If those men had been found guilty it would have been
a novel case and a violation of all the rules of the world in all martyr
cases before.
The murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith can rest assured that their
case, independent of all earthly tribunals, will be tried by the Supreme
Judge of the Universe, who has said, vengeance is mine and I will repay.'
Saturday, 31.----Brother George D. Watt returned from Carthage.
Threats were made that his minutes should never go to Nauvoo, but he
succeeded in passing them out of the court room about every hour.
Calvin A. Warren [counsel for the defense] said that if the prisoners
were guilty of murder he himself was guilty alleging that it was the
public opinion that the Smiths ought to be killed, and public opinion made
the laws consequently it was not murder to kill the Smiths. (!)
Elder Orson Spencer made the following report:
REPORTED INTERVIEW WITH GOVERNOR FORD AND EX-GOVERNOR REYNOLDS `By
the appointment of the Twelve I went to Springfield, Illinois about the
middle of June [a note in the manuscript changes this to `the last of
May'] in company with Brother Samuel Brannan in order to See Governor
Ford. Immediately on our arrival we found his Excellency who received us
politely and introduced us to the secretary of state, Mr. Campbell, and to
ex-Governor Reynolds. After dinner we all repaired to the governor's
office in the state house except Mr. Campbell. There we held a familiar
interview for several hours; during which both governors spoke freely of
the unreasonable preJudice of the people through the state especially in
the southern part of it. They were requested to use their influence
officially and personally to allay prejudice and rebut slanders that might
ultimately endanger the safety of this people unless counteracted.
Governor Reynolds said that he had attempted to speak in extenuation of
the supposed faults of the saints at public meetings, but the people
rudely resisted his efforts and accused him of being a `Smithite' and a
`Mormon'; and he was seriously afraid they would mob us by making an
attack by the cooperation of steamboats upon our city. Both governors
strenuously urged the necessity that the saints should cease to gather in
one place and also opposed my suggestion to buy out the anti-Mormons in
the county. They alleged that we might spread through other counties as we
had done in Hancock, which would increase the alarm in other counties and
in the state generally. They said that our political influence was that
which exasperated the people.
Governor Ford said he durst not trust the best militia in the state
to defend the Mormons. They would go over to the side of the mob in the
event of a collision. He said that even General Hardin could not be
trusted in our defense against the mob. He further said that the conduct
of Governor Boggs of Missouri was unlawful and barbarous and pledged
himself never to act like him in driving the saints and confirmed a former
pledge that he would never demand the leaders of this church on criminal
writs to expose them to assassination as the Smiths had been, and to use
his utmost endeavors to suppress all mobs. He said however that his
official influence was only nominal, there was really no force in the
government.
Large masses of people that might assemble for violent and tumultuous
purposes could not be restrained by any law or government.
He was then assured that it was our intention as soon as we could
finish the Temple to send off many of our people to distant parts of the
earth and in the course of eighteen months very many of our people would
colonize distant parts; and we were ready from that time forth to sell our
property as soon as practicable and commence removals, if the people round
about would buy us out.'
Sunday, June 1, 1845.----I attended meeting at the stand. Elder Heber
C. Kimball preached.
[In the remarks of Elder Kimball the following occurs].
DISCOURSE OF ELDER KIMBALL `I will mention one thing that we united
in prayer for and called upon the Father in the name of Jesus: that our
enemies should not have power to come in here with vexatious writs, for
his servants during this court, and they have not done it. Is not this a
miracle? Yes; and we hAve asked for rain, and it has rained; and we have
asked for God to heal the sick, and he has healed them, or they are
mending in answer to our prayers. Are not these great blessings? Does not
this prove that God is with this people? Yes, verily, his name is to be
praised, if this people will feel the same interest for the building up of
this kingdom, and for the erecting of those houses, his will will be done,
and there is no power that can stay them, and when that is done, I am
satisfied; I do not care if I go into the wilderness the next day.'
Elder John Taylor followed [Elder Kimball] on the subject of our
persecutions. I made a few remarks.
At four p. m. the Presidents of Seventies met and preached to each
other, and ordained four presidents for the twenty-seventh quorum.
Evening, I met for council and prayer with Elders H. C. Kimball,
Orson Pratt, Willard Richards, John E. Page, John Taylor, George A. Smith,
Amasa M.
Lyman, John Smith, N. K. Whitney, George Miller, Levi Richards,
Joseph Young and Wm. Clayton. Voted that Brother Peter O. Hanson translate
the Doctrine and Covenants and Book of Mormon into the Danish Norwegian
language and that Elder Orson Pratt assist him. Voted that the Trustees
give George D. Watt a quarter of a lot and build him a house and employ
him as reporter for the church and let his labors go towards paying for
his house and lot. We prayed that justice might overtake the murderers of
Joseph and Hyrum and that George J. Adams be stopped in his mad career.
A conference was held in Merthyr-Tydvil, Wales, Elder William Henshaw
presided; forty had been baptized since the April conference, and the
brethren felt determined to spread the gospel.
At a special conference held in Cincinnati, thirty- two members were
represented.
Monday, 2.----I met with the Twelve in council.
Thursday, 5.----I met for prayer with the Twelve and other brethren.
Elder Parley P. Pratt wrote to the Twelve of date, as follows:
ELDER PARLEY P. PRATT'S LETTER TO THE TWELVE IN NAUVOO-- CONDITIONS
IN NEW YORK CITY `As it regards publishing in this city [New York], if all
the political and religious influence and support we have combined will
support a periodical, even allowing the editor to work for nothing and
live on sawdust pudding, it will be more than we have yet done, or are
likely to do at present. There is little prospect of a periodical being
supported by church or state, even if we give our time gratis, and use the
utmost economy; therefore to divide it and either of us succeed seems at
present impracticable; and I doubt very much whether we can continue to
publish. The churches are few in number, we decrease while you increase.
The law of tithing, emigration, the strengthening and defense of the City
of Joseph has occupied the attention and employed the energies of the
saints so entirely, since we came from the west and laid before them their
duty and the necessity of immediate action, that it seems almost vain to
mention subscriptions for papers in this country. If they have a dollar to
spare, it is handed in for tithing, or used for the purchase of arms,
clothing and ammunition, or to help themselves to emigrate and settle in
the west.
Our teachings and influence, aided by yours and by the Spirit of God,
have tended to produce this state of things, and it pleases us so well
that we do not like to counteract it in the least; but it rather
embarrasses us as to immediate means to clothe or to furnish us money for
necessary expenses and involves us in debt, besides devoting our entire
time.
I have become convinced that I can do no good here. The public are
entirely indifferent, and will neither come to meeting, hear, nor read the
truth. The saints are few, about fifty of them attended a Sunday meeting
in a large hall, and perhaps half a dozen strangers come in and out to
gaze and gape and wonder and perish.
I have labored hard for six months without an idle moment, and have
used economy in living, traveling and clothing. I feel as if I was now
done with this city, and nearly so with the nation. My garments are clear,
if they all perish. If I tarry a little longer in the east it will
necessarily be in Boston and vicinity, where there is more interest
manifested for the truth.'
Saturday, 7.----Elder W. Woodruff visited the saints in London and
secured the copyright of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants at Stationer's
Hall, having published three thousand copies at Liverpool: he presented a
copy to the Library of the British Museum. The copyright was secured in
forty-eight hours after the last sheets were obtained from the printers;
which defeated a secret plan of some of our enemies who were taking
measures to print the book and secure the copyright.
Sunday, 8.----At four p. m., I met with the Twelve and others for
counsel and prayer: we decided that Elder Orson Hyde go to the east and
buy canvas for a Tabernacle [tent], and type to print the History of
Joseph Smith. General Conference of Seventies met and proceeded with the
organization of the quorums.
A conference was held in Florence, St. Joseph county, Michigan, when
one hundred and twenty-eight members, one high priest, sixteen elders and
four of the lesser priesthood were represented; Elder Crandall Dunn,
president and Elder E. M. Webb, clerk.
Tuesday, 10.----I met in council with the brethren of the Twelve, and
discussed the title of the Church History.
Thursday, 12.----I spent the afternoon with several of the Twelve.
Sunday, 15.----Elder Orson Hyde preached at the stand; Elder George
A. Smith advocated the building of the Nauvoo House, and was followed by
Elders Amasa M. Lyman and George Miller on the same subject. The high
priests' quorum met. Evening, I met with the Twelve. The seventies met;
Elder Joseph Young and others preached.
Monday, 16.----Council met on the Temple walls.
Tuesday, 18.----The Council of the Twelve wrote the following:
LETTER OF THE TWELVE TO THE SAINTS ABROAD `To the Saints Abroad,
Greeting: The walls of our Temple are completed and the roof is nearly on.
Through the liberality of the brethren that building is in a rapid state
of advancement; but it will only accommodate a small portion of our
congregation when completed.
Pursuant to the counsel of Joseph Smith given previous to his
martyrdom, we now intend to erect a Tabernacle for the congregation made
of canvas. It will take about four thousand yards, which, with other
fixtures, will cost between one and two thousand dollars.
We have appointed Elder Orson Hyde one of our own quorum, a faithful,
trusty and competent man of God, to go forth and raise all the necessary
funds for the above purpose, to procure the materials and return with them
to this place as soon as possible. Elder Hyde is authorized to raise the
necessary funds by loan, by contribution or tithing or donation if by
loan, the church here will refund the same in lands at a low rate, or in
cash as soon as we can command it; and any contract that he may make in
relation to the above, the church will be responsible for.
It is hoped that no brother or sister who has funds that he or she
can spare for a season will withhold them from Brother Hyde, for it is the
aid that he seeks for us. Also we hope that the saints will be liberal in
their donations, and every other person that wishes well to the Temple of
God and to the Tabernacle of the congregation in Zion. May God bless all
that feel interested in the matter.'
Bishop Whitney started for St. Louis with $1,549 to purchase
materials for the Temple.
Wednesday, 18.----I met with Elders Heber C. Kimball,
John Taylor and George A. Smith at Brother Taylor's; we revised a
portion of the History of Joseph Smith.
Elders Phineas H. Young and Charles Shumway returned from their
missions and reported favorably.
Thursday, 19.----I spent the day with Brothers H. C. Kimball and
George A. Smith revising history. Evening, the Twelve met for council and
prayer.
I received a lengthy letter from Mr. H. R. Hotchkiss in relation to
the necessity of establishing manufactories in Nauvoo for the employment
of our rapidly increasing population of mechanics.
Friday, 20.----Elders H. C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, George A. Smith,
and myself engaged revising Church History.
Sunday, 22.----Meeting at the stand; Elder Orson Pratt preached, but
as it rained heavily, the meeting was dismissed. Evening, I met with the
Twelve and others for prayer; Sister Jennetta Richards being very sick was
administered to.
Monday, 23.----The sheriff came in with writs for a number of
brethren and succeeded in arresting O. P. Rockwell and J. P. Harmon, but
Rockwell got away from him. A constable from Le Harpe came in with writs
for Brother Taylor, myself and others, but we kept out of the way.
Jonathan Dunham who was on a mission to the Lamanites received a
notification from Ranes, the Indian Agent of the Neosha sub-agency to
leave the country immediately.
Tuesday, 24.----I examined Church History with the brethren. Evening,
Hiram Kimball and D. H. Wells returned from Carthage and brought word that
Sheriff Deming had shot Sam Marshall.
Wednesday 25.----At three p. m., I met with the Quorum of the Twelve
for prayer; and in council in relation to a difficulty between William
Smith and Brother Elbridge Tufts.
After council the Twelve met with the police at the
Masonic Hall when Wm. Smith delivered a very pathetic speech,
delineating in a sectarian tone, the wrongs that his brothers and himself
had sustained; asserting that we were all dependent upon his family for
the priesthood, and pronouncing the most fearful anathemas upon all those
who should not sustain him in his course, justifying his assault upon
Brother Tufts, and demanding of the Twelve to inform the police that it
was their duty to take his counsel in relation to the manner they
discharge their duty. I told him that as an officer Brother Tuft was
subject to the magistrates, and had no right to discharge a prisoner only
by the order of the proper officer; that he (Brother William Smith) had no
more right to interfere with the police than I had; that when he beat
Brother Tufts for refusing to discharge his prisoner, he was doing wrong,
and meddling with that which was not his business and should make
satisfaction; that we received the priesthood from God through Joseph
Smith and not through William, and that he had no authority or power to
curse the Twelve Apostles who received the priesthood from Joseph; that we
were not influenced by his curses, and that his prayers and imprecations
upon the heads of those who were seeking to fulfill the instructions of
Joseph to the letter would rise no higher than the smoke from a dung hill.
Brother William appeared humbled and agreed to make ample
satisfaction to Brother Tufts.
Received a letter from James Arlington Bennett of New York, in which
he applies to be consecrated a general of the Nauvoo Legion, that he may
`fight Napoleon's battles over again, either in Nauvoo or elsewhere.' This
wild spirit of ambition has repeatedly manifested itself to us by many
communications received from various sources, suggesting schemes of blood
and empire, as if the work of the Lord was intended for personal
aggrandizement.
Thursday, 26,----The Twelve met for council and prayer: several
children were blessed. The first stone for the new font was laid in the
Temple.
Friday, 27.----Elders Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Amasa M. Lyman,
George A. Smith, Willard Richards, John E. Page, George Miller, Joseph
Young and John Taylor met for fasting, prayer and counsel.
I wrote the following letter to Elder Woodruff:
BRIGHAM YOUNG'S LETTER TO WILFORD WOODRUFF IN ENGLAND-- PROGRESS AND
UNITY IN NAUVOO `Nauvoo, June 27th, 1845. Dear Brother Woodruff.---We sit
down to acknowledge the receipt of your letters, and it being one year
this day since the massacre of our beloved brethren Joseph and Hyrum, we
have concluded to spend the day in conversation, counsel and prayer, and
also to write answers to your letters, well knowing that a little
information from this place must be acceptable to you at all times, for we
feel it as a source of comfort to us to hear of your prosperity. We have
met from time to time to offer up our prayers and thanksgivings before the
Lord for the salvation and peace of the saints, and that the Lord would
enable us to finish the Temple and the Nauvoo House that the brethren
might obtain their endowments, for this we have supplicated by night and
by day, and hitherto we have been prospered in a manner beyond our most
sanguine expectations. Another subject for which we have constantly
supplicated is the welfare and success of our dear brethren in England,
Brother Parley P. Pratt in New York, and the brethren on the Islands of
the Pacific, these with our petitions for the sick in our midst, and that
God will preserve us from internal broils, has been the theme of our
prayers from time to time, and we are happy to say that God has heard and
answered our prayers, and has done all things well. The most perfect
union, peace and good feeling has invariably prevailed in our midst and
still continues. It seems like a foretaste of celestial enjoyment and
Millennial glory.
The capstone of the Temple was laid by the Twelve on Saturday morning
the 24th of May, at six o'clock, in the presence of many saints. It would
have pleased you to have heard the hosannas on that occasion, and to have
witnessed the short but interesting ceremony. The frame work of the roof
is on the building, and the next week the brethren expect to put on the
shingles; the frame work around the foundation of the tower is all up, and
the first timbers for the tower itself were raised this day. The new stone
front is mostly cut, and the first stone was laid today at about four
o'clock. We expect in about five or six weeks the attic story of the
Temple and the font will be all finished and ready for dedication, and
just as soon as they are ready we shall dedicate them. We have all the
timbers for the Temple on the ground, and above one hundred thousand
shingles for the roof. The lead for the eaves and the tin for the dome of
the tower are also bought. We have paid near 4000 dollars this spring for
lumber (pine, boards, etc.) and near 1000 dollars for lead and tin, and
have as yet lacked nothing. There is the most perfect union prevailing
among the saints, and every man seems determined to do all he can to roll
on the work of the Temple as fast as possible. Elder Hyde started east,
about ten days ago, to purchase the cloth for the Tabernacle; and Elder
Egan is gone to St. Louis to buy about 125 dollars worth of hemp to make
cords for it.
The brethren are clearing the ground round the Temple, and we expect
to have the Tabernacle reared, so as to be ready to meet in this fall.
We are building a stone wall around the Temple block, eight feet high
and about five feet thick at the base, the wall on the north side is
nearly built, the most of the woodwork for the Temple is finished, all the
window frames and sashes are made, and the glaziers are ready to set the
glass, which we expect here in a few days, the frame and ornamental work
of the tower is all ready to be put up, and the whole is far on the way of
completion. The Nauvoo House Committee have reorganized, and the saints
have appointed Elders A. Lyman and George A. Smith on that committee, in
the place of Lyman Wight and J. Snider. A large quantity of brick is
already made for the Nauvoo House, and considerable means are on hand to
prosecute the work. We calculate to have it covered in before winter. The
arsenal is ready for the roof timbers and the timbers on the ground. There
are many good buildings erecting in different parts of the city, there is
not much sickness in the place, and there never was a more prosperous
time, in general, amongst the saints, since the work commenced. Nauvoo,
or, more properly, the `City of Joseph', looks like a paradise. All the
lots and land, which have heretofore been vacant and unoccupied, were
enclosed in the spring, and planted with grain and vegetables, which makes
it look more like a garden of gardens than a city; and the season has been
so favorable, the prospect is, there will be enough raised within the
limits of the corporation to supply the inhabitants with corn, potatoes,
and other vegetables. Hundreds of acres of prairie land have also been
enclosed, and are now under good cultivation, blooming with corn, wheat,
potatoes, and other necessaries of life. Many strangers are pouring in to
view the Temple and the city. They express their astonishment and surprise
to see the rapid progress of the Temple, and the beauty and grandeur of
Mormon looks. Many brethren are coming from abroad, who seem highly
delighted with the place and all its appendages.
We now conclude with our best wishes and prayers for your health and
prosperity with that of your family, and those associated with you. Please
remember us to Brothers Clark, Hedlock and families, and those of all the
brethren with you, and believe us to be as ever---yours in the bonds of
truth and righteousness. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG.
P.S. Sunday, June 29.---This day the twenty-eighth quorum of the
seventies has been organized, and is nearly full. There are twenty-seven
quorums duly organized and all appear united in the same interest, and
firm in the faith. Brother Milton Holmes is remembered by us in his
station, he has been appointed one of the presidents of a quorum of
seventies.'
The saints in England observed this, the anniversary of the martyrdom
of Joseph and Hyrum, by fasting and prayer: Elder Woodruff addressed a
large assembly of saints at Birmingham.
Saturday, 28.----A number of brethren met and removed the stand and
benches to the ground west of the Temple.
I rode out to the prairie with several of the Twelve: we felt
thankful to God to see the crops looking so well.
Some of our wealthy brethren went to Carthage and became sureties on
the bond upon which General Deming was set at liberty: the sum required
was ten thousand dollars. Each signer was required to swear to the lowest
cash value of his property and that it did not lie in the City of Nauvoo
and he was then taken for one-half the sworn amount, so that twenty
thousand dollars in property at its lowest cash value was held in security
for General Deming's appearance at court. This contrasts strangely with
the clemency extended by the court to Sharp, Williams, Aldrich, Grover,
and Davis who were admitted to bail at the last court for one thousand
dollars each on their own security; Deming having killed Marshall in
self-defense, while the others violated the solemn faith of the state,
pledged by its executive, and murdered innocent, unoffending men while
confined in helpless condition in a prison awaiting examination!
Thirteen hundred dwellings were burned in Quebec, Canada, and at
least six thousand persons were rendered homeless.
Father John Smith and Brother George R. called upon William Smith in
relation to his mother's visions. William evinced a very bitter spirit and
declared himself President of the Church, and said that he would have his
rights: his uncle reasoned with him and endeavored to show him the falsity
of his position.
Sunday, 29.----Elder Ezra T. Benson and I preached in the forenoon
and Elders John Taylor and Amasa M. Lyman in the afternoon, at the grove
west of the Temple. Evening, I met with the Twelve and others for prayer.
Monday, 30.----Visited Mother Smith in company with the Twelve and
Bishops Whitney and Miller. William Smith was invited but did not attend.
Mother Smith expressed herself satisfied with the Twelve and the course
they were pursuing. * * *
Tuesday, July 8, 1845.----Brother Joseph Toronto handed to me $2,500
in gold and said he wanted to give himself and all he had to the
up-building of the church and kingdom of God; he said he should henceforth
look to me for protection and counsel. I laid the money at the feet of the
bishops.
Wednesday, 9.----Sister Jennetta Richards, wife of Dr. Willard
Richards, died at 10: 15 a. m.
At 2 p. m. the Smith family attended a public dinner at the Mansion
which was given by Bishops Whitney and Miller in behalf of the church;
seven widows and about fifty of the family were present. Brothers H. C.
Kimball, John Taylor, Bishops Whitney, Miller and myself, assisted in
waiting on the table; the band and a few friends attended: Mother Smith
addressed her kindred and the audience in a feeling and pathetic manner. *
* *
Saturday, August 2, 1845.----In council with several of the Twelve
and bishops. Brother Emmett desired in behalf of his company to be
retained in the fellowship of the church. I informed him that if he and
his company would follow the counsel of the Twelve we would fellowship
them, but not otherwise.
Afternoon, I rode out in the new church carriage with Brother Kimball
and the bishops to look at two [city] blocks of Emma Smith's which she has
agreed to sell the Trustees for $550.00. We selected block 96 and 97 and
then went to other Smith's and brought her in the carriage to choose which
of the two blocks she would have deeded to herself and her daughters. She
selected block 96, and desired to have the church build her a house like
Brother Kimball's. She asked for the carriage we rode in, a horse and a
double carriage harness. We gave her the use of the carriage during her
lifetime.
Monday, 4.----Elders Daniel Spencer and Charles Shumway were
appointed to go on a mission west in company with Brothers Herring and
Otis.
Afternoon, in council with the Twelve, James Emmett and others.
Emmett wished to be restored to the priesthood. He confessed his fault in
leading away his company contrary to counsel and promised to make all the
restoration in his power, he said he would abide counsel. Council decided
he should be restored.
Wednesday, 6.----In council with Brothers H. C. Kimball, W. Richards,
G, A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman.
From the New York Sun.
TEMPLE AT NAUVOO "The building of the Mormon Temple under all the
troubles by which those people have been surrounded, seems to be carried
on with a religious enthusiasm which reminds us of olden times, by the
energy which controls all the movements towards its completion. It
occupies the highest and most imposing position in Nauvoo and is built of
fine limestone. Has thirty pilasters---six at each end and nine at each
side--each surmounted by a capital on which is carved a human face with
rays around it and two hands holding trumpets. The Temple is 88 feet by
128 feet; from floor to ceiling is 65 feet; and from the ground to the top
of the spire is 165 feet. The baptismal font is in the basement, to be
supported by stone oxen, Three hundred and fifty men are zealously at work
upon the building, which it is supposed will be finished in a year and a
half, probably at a cost of half a million of dollars. The spiritual
concerns of the Mormons are governed by a Council of Twelve, composed of
the following persons Brigham Young---The Lion of the Lord. H. C.
Kimball---The Herald of Grace, Parley P. Pratt----The Archer of Paradise.
Orson Hyde---The Olive Branch of Israel. Willard Richards---The Keeper of
the Rolls. John Taylor---The Champion of Right. Wm. Smith---The
Patriarchal, Jacob's Staff. Wilford Woodruff---The Banner of the Gospel.
George A. Smith---The Entablature of Truth. Orson Pratt---The Gauge of
Philosophy. John E. Page---The Sundial. Lyman Wight---The Wild Ram of the
Mountains.
It is supposed that the Mormon inhabitants of this city are fully
12,000 souls, and of the surrounding country, 5,000 more. The only
property owned in common is the Temple. The Mormons are industrious, good
farmers, raise wheat plentifully, and are about to engage in manufactures.
The whole community may be considered in their peculiar traits singular
and remarkable and in after ages their Temple, like the ruins of Palenque
may strike the beholder with wonder and history may be unable to explain
what race worshiped there.'
Tuesday, 12.----9 a. m., the Twelve, presiding bishops and others met
in council, and wrote letters for H. G, Sherwood and John S. Fullmer, with
authority to lead, direct and instruct Emmett's company who are now
encamped among the Sioux on the Missouri river about thirty miles above
the mouth of Big Sioux river. We laid our hands upon the heads of Brothers
Sherwood, Fullmer and Emmett and blessed them for the mission. Brother
Emmett declared he wouLd be subject to counsel.
Sunday, 17.----I dreamed this morning I saw Brother Joseph Smith, and
as I was going about my business, he said, `Brother Brigham, don't be in a
hurry', which was repeated the second and third times with a degree of
sharpness.
Monday, 18.----I met with the brethren of the Council, and Trustees
of the Nauvoo House on the walls of the building. Elder Kimball dedicated
it to the Lord, asking his blessing to attend the work and those engaged
upon it. The workmen then commenced: Brother Alonzo H. Raleigh laid the
first brick.
Wednesday, 20.----A severe thunderstorm this morning, Brother Ralph
was killed by lightning on Parley Street. Others were knocked down.
Governor Ford ordered the state arms in the possession of the
Carthage Greys to be delivered to Sheriff Backenstos.
Friday, 22.----Elders W. Richards and George A Smith commenced
writing the History of Zion s Camp. Brother George A. Smith supplying many
incidents from memory.
Sunday, 24.----Meeting at the stand: My brother Joseph Young,
preached a funeral sermon. I made a few remarks.
Evening, the quorums all met at the stand and I instructed them about
building the houses the Lord had commanded, called upon the bricklayers to
come forward and put up the Nauvoo House, fifty came forward,
Elder David Foote was buried. He was born, August 7, 1769,
Harrington, Litchfield county, Connecticut. His father enlisted in the
army of the Revolution and died in the service, David was reared by his
uncle, Jonathan Barker.
In 1791 he married Irene, the eldest daughter of Matham and Dorcas
Lane. He joined the Methodists and served as a class leader several years,
he subsequently became a believer in universal restoration.
In the winter of 1830 he obtained a copy of the Book of Mormon which
was read by himself and family, he considered it a true record. He was
baptized by Elder John Murdock in Genesee, in the fall of 1833, and
ordained an elder in 1834, commenced preaching and raised up a branch in
Greenwood, New York, where he resided, and was called to preside over the
same in 1835, Several elders visited him during the summer, and members
were added to the branch.
In 1837, he moved with his family to Chester, near Kirtland, and in
May, 1838, started for Missouri and arrived in Caldwell county in August
in time to share in the persecutions that followed, and was driven to
Adams county, Illinois. He was ordained a high priest in November, 1844.
August 14, 1845 he was taken sick with the chills and fever, his
sickness continued till the night of the 22nd, when he fell asleep and all
attempts to awake him proved ineffectual, he slept till 11 p. m., when he
passed behind the veil without a struggle or a groan. Dying as he lived, a
faithful saint.
Wednesday, 27.----Elder Parley P. Pratt gave an account of his
mission in the east where he had been about 9 months (and returned on
August 26th) , preaching to and counseling the saints, and collecting
tithing. Council voted they were satisfied with the course of Elder Pratt.
Monday, September 1, 1845. ---- Elders Daniel Spencer and Charles
Shumway, who left Nauvoo on a mission to the west, on the fourth of last
month returned with news confirmatory of the death of Brother Jonathan
Dunham, which took place on the 28th of July last, a little before
daylight.
Thursday, 4.----2 p. m., met for counsel and prayer with the Twelve
and others.
Messrs. Elam Meacham, Phineas Richards, Levi R. Chase, Francisco
Durphy, Isaac Houston, John Wait, Gardner Clark and Thomas Corbitt the
trustees and officers of the Big Field Association having invited us to
attend a public dinner, Elders H. C. Kimball, W. Richards, John Taylor,
George A, Smith, Amasa Lyman, Father John Smith, Bishops George Miller and
N. K. Whitney went to the field about six miles southeast from the city
and partook with them of an excellent dinner. 616 adults sat down to the
table: They had an ample bowery prepared for the occasion. I preached
encouragingly to the brethren and advised them to store their grain in the
city. They have 30,000 bushels of corn in the field."
CHAPTER XXXII.
PREPARATIONS FOR WESTWARD JOURNEY ---- THE FINAL WORD: THE CHURCH
MUST LEAVE ILLINOIS ----DETAIL OF THE PLANS----AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
FAILS IN THE CASE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS
"Tuesday, September 9, 1845.----Forenoon, unwell. Two p. m. General
Council [Council of Fifty] met. Resolved that a company of 1500 men be
selected to go to Great Salt Lake valley and that a committee of five be
appointed to gather information relative to emigration and report the same
to the council.
Wednesday, 10.----I dreamed last night that I was chased by a mob to
a place like a barn full of corn or grain, one chased me so close that he
got into the same room with me and it was Thomas Ford, who appeared only
two and one-half feet high, I took his wrist between my fingers and
stepped to the door and knocked down one after another of the mob with him
till I discovered he was dead.
News arrived that the mob are burning the houses of the brethren at
Yelrome.
Thursday, 11,----I received a letter from Sheriff J. B. Backenstos
announcing the death of General Miner R. Deming, who died at half past ten
o'clock yesterday of congestive fever; during his illness his life was
repeatedly threatened by the mob, he was prevented from sleeping at night
by their yells and hideous screams, as they kept up a continual tow in the
streets of Carthage near the general's residence which greatly aggravated
his fever, and doubtless caused his death.
I answered Sheriff Backenstos' letter assuring him of our regret at
the loss the cause of liberty, law, and order had sustained in the
unexpected death of General Deming, and informed him of the burning of the
houses of the citizens of Morley Settlement by the mob yesterday, and
requested him to take immediate steps to suppress the mob, advised him to
inform the governor that he may take the necessary measures to protect the
lives and property of the people in this country.
A messenger from Lima reports eight houses burned.
The Twelve met in council; it was agreed to dispatch a messenger to
the Lima branch and counsel the brethren to propose to sell their property
to the mob and bring their families and grain here, and to send a
messenger to Michigan to advise the brethren to sell their farms for
stock, sheep, etc., also to Ottawa and recommend the brethren there to
gather all the hay they can.
Prayers were offered up that the Lord would give us wisdom to manage
affairs with the mob so as to keep them off till we can accomplish what he
requires at our hands in completing the Temple and Nauvoo House, also for
wisdom to manage the affairs in regard to the western emigration.
A selection was made of members of the council to start westward next
spring.
Friday, 12.----Nine a.. m., council met at Historian's Office, wrote
and dispatched the following letter by James H. Woodland:----
BRIGHAM YOUNG'S LETTER TO SOLOMON HANCOCK `Nauvoo, Sept. 12, 1845,
President Solomon Hancock, Dear Brother: We have received your
communication of last eve and taken it into consideration in council, and
decided that it is wisdom for you to remove the women and children from
Yelrome as fast as you can with what teams you have got, and we will send
you more as fast as we can, and not only remove the women and children but
your grain and let all the brethren stay there and keep `bachelor's hall'
and watch movements of the mob.
The object of our enemies is to get opposition enough to raise
popular excitement but we think it best to let them burn up our houses
while we take care of our families and grain.
Let the sheriff of Hancock county attend to the mob, and let us see
whether he and the Jack-Mormons, so-called, the friends of law and order,
will calmly sit down and watch the funeral processions of Illinois
liberty; if so, they will all fall under the same condemnation. At a
future day our course will be plain.
Be calm and patient till all things are ready. What is a little
property or a few lives, compared with the properties and lives of a great
people, and the house and ordinances on which the salvation of that people
depend?
You will employ the best scribe you have, or half a dozen of them, if
necessary, to pen minutely all the movements of the enemy and friends,
what houses are burned, by whom, at what hour, who were present, and who
saw them do it, etc.: even every particular and forward us a daily copy,
if opportunity permits. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, President. W. Richards,
Clerk.'
SOLOMON HANCOCK'S ANSWER TO BRIGHAM YOUNG By letter from Solomon
Hancock, Yelrome, we learn that the mob have burned all the houses on the
south side of the branch [brook] , and left last evening for Lima, said
they would return this morning as soon as light, and swear they will sweep
through and burn everything to Nauvoo. Colonel Levi Williams is at the
head of the mob.
The following notice was issued by the council:
`Nauvoo, Sept. 12, 1845. To the Brethren in and About Nauvoo,
Greeting: The Council of the Church requests every man who has a team to
go immediately to the Morley Settlement, and act in concert with President
Solomon Hancock in removing the sick, the women, children, goods and grain
to Nauvoo. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, President W. Richards, Clerk.'
The brethren at Yelrome made the following proposition to the
mob:----
`Yelrome, Sept. 12, 1845. We the undersigned, a committee appointed
by the Morley and Hancock Settlement (a branch of the Mormon Church) ;
Whereas there seemingly exists some difficulty between said body and
anti-Mormons, we, as representatives of said body, wish to make Some
propositions so as to make peace;
we wish to sell our deeded lands as well as our improvements as low
as it could be reasonably expected, reserving to ourselves the crops now
on the premises; and will take in exchange, working cattle, beef cattle,
cows, sheep, horses, wagons, harness, store goods, and any available
property and give possession as soon as our crops can be taken care of and
we receive pay for the same; the whole of which may be purchased from the
undersigned acting as committee or from owners. [Signed] DANIEL TYLER,
HORACE RAWSON, MARCELLUS MCCOWN, SAMUEL ALGER.'
An extra Nauvoo Neighbor was issued giving an account of the burning;
and appealing to the citizens to come forward and magnify the laws.
Saturday, 13.----Brother H. C. Kimball and Andrew Perkins visited me.
Brother Perkins wanted to know something about our going west; I told him
that those who went must expect to go on the Apostles' doctrines and no
man say aught that he has is his own, but all things are the Lord's: and
we his stewards, and every man receive his stewardship.
George W. Lang reported that he had been among the mob at Green
Plains and Lima. Esquire Hill of Lima told him they did not design
gathering in large bodies, but go on as they had done and finish burning
Yelrome, then attack some other place and drive the Mormons all into
Nauvoo, then they had further plans to move them from there by help from
abroad.
Afternoon, I visited the sick and met the Committee on Emigration and
others at Brother Daniel Spencer's. Father Bent was instructed to organize
a company of 100 families.
George Miller said he went to Carthage with his wife and was
transacting business at the county clerk's office, when he was arrested by
Michael Barnes, constable, and taken before Captain Robert F. Smith,
justice of he peace; was charged with treason and as the state was not
ready for trial, and the offense not bailable, Captain Smith ordered him
to be committed to jail, upon which Miller told him there was not enough
men in the little town to put him in jail. Said he had served the United
States government in two wars----had made the roads into this. country and
had killed snakes, and it was an imposition for these slinks that followed
his tracks to charge him with treason, but if they wished to have an
examination, he would come and attend court, but would not go into that
jail alive. Upon which Esquire Smith took his verbal recognizance for his
appearance at Carthage the next Saturday.
Sunday, 14.----* * * I prophesied we would have a winter of peace in
Nauvoo.
I said, in relation to the mob burning houses, I was willing they
should do so, until the surrounding counties should be convinced that we
were not the aggressors, peradventure they may conclude to maintain the
supremacy of the law by putting down mob violence and bringing offenders
to justice.
I counseled the brethren to bring their families and grain here, and
called for volunteers with wagons and teams to aid in removing the saints
to this place; one hundred and thirty-four teams were procured and started
forthwith. The brethren agreed to continue until they had brought in all
their families, effects and grain of the saints in the settlements
attacked by the mob.
I received a letter from John Loveless and Westley Knight informing
me that the Highland branch was embodied [organized] by order of the
sheriff to protect their property.
SUBSTITUTION OF MILITARY MEASURES FOR CIVIC MUNICIPAL ORGANIZATION As
the repeal of our City Charter had deprived us of our military
organization, the following was issued by the council:----
`To Charles C. Rich: President of all the Organized Quorums of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Hancock County.
Greeting: You are hereby instructed to hold the same [i. e. quorums
of the priesthood] in readiness for all duties that shall be necessary in
all emergencies.
Done at the `City of Joseph' this 14th day of September, A. D. 1845.
[Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG, President.'
Monday, 15.----Seven a. m., the police met at my house and put me up
a stable.
Sheriff Backenstos went to Warsaw and tried his best to summon a
posse to stop the burning but could not raise one.
Forty-four buildings have been burned by the mob. Several houses have
been burned in the. Prairie branch, Green Plain precinct.
Michael Barnes a constable from Carthage, and his brother came into
Nauvoo with writs for H. C. Kimball, Willard Richards, John E. Page,
Daniel Garn, Wm. and George A. Smith, and myself, issued by Captain Smith
of the Carthage Greys, on the complaint of -------------- Backman. The
charges were for aiding and abetting Joseph Smith in treasonable designs
against the state, for being officers in the Nauvoo Legion, for building
an arsenal, for keeping cannon in times .of peace, for holding a private
council in Nauvoo, and for holding correspondence with the Indians.
He called on General Miller and made known his business. Miller told
him he would get the men together and they would meet him at the Masonic
Hall at 4 o'clock p. m. The constable said he did not wish to see Wm.
Smith, but was anxious for all the others; before the time appointed he
concluded to leave the names of the parties with General Miller and
requested them to meet the justice at A. G. Fellow's house on the Prairie
four miles this side of Carthage.
I wrote Elder Samuel Brannan in regard to the continuation of the New
York Messenger as follows:
`Do as you and Brother Pratt think best, only do not think to sustain
it [the Messenger] from the tithing. On your circumstances and whether the
subscription list will warrant its continuation or not.
I wish you together with your press, paper, and ten thousand of the
brethren, were now in California at the Bay of San Francisco, and if you
can clear yourself and go there, do so.
I received a letter from J. B. Backenstos, dated, Carthage, September
15th, in which he stated his inability to raise law and order citizens to
quell the mob and requested us to hold two thousand well armed men in
readiness for immediate service at any hour that he may call for them a
that if we will not defend our own lives and property that we cannot
reasonably expect any considerable support from those citizens commonly
called `Jack-Mormons'. `Colonel Levi Williams has ordered out his brigade
of militia, I am certain the turnout will be slim, we must whip them.'
In reply I advised him to wait a few days and see if there are any
law and order citizens in the county that are not Mormons, and if it
proved there were none else to stand up for the Constitution and laws of
the state, it would then be time enough for us, as the old citizens had
heretofore advised us to `hold still'! `Keep cool'! `Be quiet'! etc.,
etc., we were determined to do so.
The first regiment, second cohort of the Nauvoo Legion met and
organized, choosing the old officers, to place themselves in readiness to
act at the sheriff's call.
`There is grain enough growing within ten miles of this city, raised
by the saints, to feed the whole population for two years if they were to
sit down and do nothing but gather it in and feast upon it, and worship
God, We expect to bring it all into the city or near it and the people
too. The mob seem determined to drive us to our duty in gathering, and
then drive us to carry the fullness of the gospel from among them and
carry it to Israel. We are all well. [Signed] [BRIGHAM YOUNG].' * * *
Tuesday, 16.----Sheriff Backenstos arrived in great haste and
somewhat excited, said that the mob had driven him from his house in
Carthage yesterday, and he went to Warsaw and stayed over night. He soon
ascertained that the people were so enraged at him for trying to stop the
house-burning that there was little probability of getting away alive, but
finally prevailed on an influential mobocrat to escort him out of Warsaw
this morning, who came with him about three and a half miles and on
leaving cautioned him that if he saw two men together to avoid them for
there were deep plans laid to kill him. Soon after he was pursued by a
party of the mob on horseback, three of whom took the lead, one of the
three had a swifter horse and gained a hundred yards in advance of his
party in a short time when his horse stumbled and threw his rider.
Backenstos maintained his speed, driving as fast as his horse could go,
The mob took the nearest road to cross his track and on his arrival
at the old railroad crossing, the mob were within about 200 yards, they
being on horseback and he in a buggy, they had gained on him considerably.
Orrin P. Rockwell and John Redding were refreshing themselves near
the crossing as they had been out to bring in some of the burnt-out
families who were sick, and on looking up saw Backenstos coming down the
hill at full speed, and asked what was the matter. Backenstos replied the
mob were after and determined to kill him and commanded them in the name
of the people of the state to protect him, Rockwell replied, fear not, we
have 50 rounds (two fifteen-shooter rifles besides revolvers) .
Sheriff Backenstos then turned to the mob and commanded them to stop,
and as they continued to advance raising their guns, he ordered Rockwell
to fire; he did so aiming at the clasp of the belt on one of the mob,
which proved to be Frank Worrell, who fell from his horse and the rest
turned back and soon brought up a wagon and put his body into it. * * *
Tuesday, 30.----Met in General Council at the Seventies' Hall * * *
Parley P. Pratt said he had made a calculation for an outfit that
every family of five persons would require: one good wagon, three yoke of
cattle, two cows, two beef cattle, three sheep, one thousand pounds of
flour, twenty pounds of sugar, one rifle and ammunition, a tent and tent
poles; and that the cost would be about $250.00 provided the family had
nothing to begin with, only bedding and cooking utensils; and the weight
would be about twenty-seven hundred including the family, and calculating
them to walk considerably would reduce it to about nineteen hundred
weight.
It was decided that all the council [i. e. of the Twelve] were to go
west with their families, friends and neighbors.
General C. C. Rich reported that General J. J. Hardin with his troops
had arrived in the city and were on the square northeast of the temple,
waiting an interview with the Twelve and authorities of the place. Also
that Sheriff Jacob B. Backenstos and Judge Stephen A. Douglas were at
Elder Taylor's and wished to see me as soon as possible. Council
adjourned.
I went with the Twelve to Elder Taylor's and saw Judge Douglas and
Sheriff Backenstos.
They said it was hard to make the people, the other side of the
Illinois river, believe that it was not the Mormons that were burning
houses in Hancock county.
They wished us to go and see General Hardin. In company with H. C.
Kimball, W. Richards, John Taylor, George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman, I
went on to the hill and met General Hardin and staff surrounded by his
troops, four hundred in number. He read us his orders from the governor to
come here and keep the peace if he had to keep the county under martial
law: said he wished to search for the bodies of two dead men who were last
seen in Nauvoo and it was supposed they had been murdered.
I told him he was welcome to search for dead bodies or anything else
he pleased. He inquired if I knew anything about them or of crimes having
been committed in Nauvoo. I replied I knew nothing of the kind, but that I
had reliable information that some hundred houses had been burned in the
south part of the county and probably if he would go there, he would find
the persons who had done it.
I tendered him the hospitality of the city and a home at my house, to
which he replied drily, `I always stay in camp.'
General Hardin marched his troops to, and searched the Temple,
Masonic Hall, Nauvoo House, and the stables of the Mansion.
There were deposited some forty barrels of wild grape wine in the
Masonic Hall which attracted the attention of some of the searchers and
caused some delay.
While searching the Mansion stables, they found where a horse had
been bled and sent for the landlord and demanded an explanation; after
being shown the horse, the General and Judge Douglas ran their swords into
the manure, as though they expected to prick some dead bodies and make
them squeal. Almon W. Babbitt told them they must think we were fools to
bury dead men in a stable when it was so easy to throw them into the
Mississippi river, which was only a few rods off. They then marched off
and camped on the south side of the city.
Caleb Baldwin was arrested and taken into camp, and examined as a
witness. Most of the questions asked were designed to find out where the
bodies of Joseph and Hyrum Smith were buried. * * *
Wednesday, October 1, 1845.----Met in council at Elder Taylor's.
General John J. Hardin, Hon, Stephen A. Douglas and J. A. McDougal were
present.
E. A. Bedell, Esqr., asked General Hardin for three or four men to go
to Warsaw and make arrests, which request was granted.
I asked the gentlemen present as to their feelings as friends and
neighbors, and in relation to our propositions for removal.
General Hardin said he would do all in his power by counsel, etc., to
help us, and approved of our proposed location at Vancouver's Island. He
thought it desirable for our sakes that we should remove, also for the
peace of the county.
Judge Douglas said Vancouver's Island was claimed by the United
States, and he felt sure there would be no objection to its settlement, or
to the settlement of Oregon.
General Hardin proposed that we should appoint trustees-in-trust to
sell our property.
I proposed a committee of the whole on both sides, and informed them
that we were not sowing any winter wheat, and a greater testimony of our
intentions to remove should not be asked.
Judge Douglas said, all competent men must admit that the
propositions of the committee of citizens of Nauvoo were just and fair.
General Hardin said he was satisfied we intended to remove but had
not the assurance we could go if our property could not be sold.
We received the following:
LETTER FROM THE QUINCY COMMITTEE `Nauvoo, October 1, 1845. To the
First President and Council of the Church at Nauvoo: Having had a free and
full conversation with you this day in reference to your proposed removal
from this county, together with members of your church, we have to request
you to submit the facts and intentions stated to us in the said
conversation to writing, in order that we may lay them before the governor
and the people of the state. We hope that by so doing it will have a
tendency to allay the excitement at present existing in the public mind.
We have the honor to subscribe ourselves. Respectfully yours etc.
[Signed] JOHN J, HARDIN, W. B. WARREN, S. A. DOUGLAS, J. A, MCDOUGAL.'
Thursday, 2,----The council received the following from Camp
Mississippi:
`To the First President and High Council of the Church of the
Latter-day Saints: Since our conference with you yesterday, we have
arrived at this place and have held free conversation with the
anti-Mormons of this and the surrounding counties. We have read to them
your statement made to us on the 1st instant. We have informed them that
you individually made similar statements to us, with the most solemn
protestations of truth, and with every appearance of earnest determination
to carry out your expressed intentions in good faith.
In the Resolutions which were adopted yesterday, in this place, by
the delegates from nine counties, (the citizens of Hancock being excluded
from the meeting), it was resolved (as we are informed, not having seen a
copy of the Resolutions), to accept your proposition to remove in the
spring.
Since we have made public the statement by you made to us, there
seems to be a general acquiescence in it by citizens of other counties,
and of this, so far as to agree to restrain and withhold all further
violence, and that you be permitted to depart in peace next spring.
We are convinced that affairs have reached such a crisis, that it has
become impossible for your church to remain in this country.
After what has been said and written by yourselves, it will be
confidently expected by us and the whole community, that you will remove
from the state with your whole church, in the manner you have agreed in
your statement to us,
Should you not do so, we are satisfied, however much we may deprecate
violence and bloodshed, that violent measures will be resorted to, to
compel your removal, which will result in most disastrous consequences to
yourselves and your opponents, `and that the. end will be your expulsion
from the state.
We think that steps should be taken by you to make it apparent that
you are actually preparing to remove in the spring. :
By carrying out, in good faith, your proposition to remove as
submitted to us, we think you should be, and will be permitted to depart
peaceably next spring for your destination, west of the Rocky Mountains.
For the purpose of maintaining law and order in this county, the
commanding general purposes to leave an armed force in this county which
will be sufficient for that purpose and which will remain as long as the
governor deems it necessary. And for the purpose of preventing the use of
such force for vexatious or improper objects, we will recommend the
governor of the state to send some competent legal officer to remain here,
and have the power of deciding what process shall be executed by said
military force.
We recommend to you to place every possible restraint in your power
over the members of your church, to prevent them from committing acts of
aggression or retaliation on any citizens of the state, as a contrary
course may, and most probably will bring about a collision which will
subvert all efforts to maintain the peace in this county; and we propose
making a similar request of your opponents in this and the surrounding
counties.
With many wishes that you may find peace and prosperity in the land
of your destination, which you desire, we have the honor to subscribe
ourselves, [Signed] JOHN J. HARDIN, W. B. WARREN, S. A. DOUGLAS, J. A.
MCDOUGAL.'
Friday, 3.----The following Resolutions by the citizens of Quincy
were published in the Quincy Whig, October 1st:----
RESOLUTIONS IN THE QUINCY WHIG `First, Resolved, That we accept and
recommend to the people of the surrounding counties to accept the
proposition made by the Mormons to remove from the state next spring: but
we accept it as an unconditional proposition to remove. We do not intend
to bring ourselves under any obligations to purchase their property or to
furnish purchasers for the same, but will expect them to dispose of their
property and remove at the time appointed.
Secondly, That we do not endorse the enumeration of grievances made
by the Mormons in their printed proposition to remove, or in any degree
yield our assent thereto: that we do not believe them to be a persecuted
people, but believe whatever grievances they may suffer to be the
legitimate consequences of their own conduct.
Thirdly, Resolved, That it is now too late to attempt the settlement
of the difficulties in Hancock county upon any other basis than that of
the removal of the Mormons from the state.
Fourthly, Resolved, That whilst we shall endeavor by all means in our
power to prevent the occurrence of anything which might operate against
their removal, and afford the people of Nauvoo any ground of complaint, we
shall equally expect good faith upon their part; and if they shall not
comply with their own propositions, the consequences must rest upon those
who violate faith. And we now solemnly pledge ourselves to be ready at the
appointed time to act as the occasion may require, and that we will
immediately adopt a preliminary military organization, for prompt future
action if occasion should demand it.
Fifthly, Resolved, That we respectfully recommend to the people of
the surrounding counties, to wait with patience the time appointed for
removal, and that if in their opinion the Resolutions passed by this
meeting are such as the occasion requires they adopt them and send copies
to the church authorities at Nauvoo.
Sixthly, Resolved, That in our opinion the peace of Hancock county
cannot be so far restored as to allow the desired progress to be made in
preparing the way for the removal of the Mormons while J. B. Backenstos
remains sheriff of said county and that he ought to resign said office.
Seventhly, Resolved, That we recommend to all parties in Hancock
county that they suspend all legal prosecutions for alleged offenses
during the present state of excitement; and that all should be permitted
to return to their homes in peace.
Eighthly, Resolved, That in our opinion it will only be necessary for
the people of Nauvoo to appoint commissioners on their part to whom
applications for the purchase of real estate may be made, and that there
is no necessity to appoint commissioners on the other side.
Ninthly, Resolved, That in order to manifest our sympathies with the
unoffending poor, the widow and orphans of Nauvoo, a committee of twenty
with a treasurer, be appointed by the chairman, whose duty it shall be to
receive subscriptions from all those desirous of contributing pecuniary
aid for such persons and that the amount collected be paid over to such
persons as they shall appoint to receive it upon their being ready to
start upon their journey of removal.
Tenthly, Resolved, That we expect as an indispensable condition to
the pacification of the county that the old citizens of Hancock county be
permitted to return to their homes unmolested by the present sheriff, and
the Mormons for the offenses alleged against them, and that any attempt on
their part to arrest or prosecute such citizens will inevitably lead to a
renewal of the late disorders.
Eleventh, Resolved, That the judge of this judicial circuit be
requested not to hold any court in Hancock county this fall, with , view
to prevent unnecessary excitement and collision in said county, which
might inflame the passions of its citizens and so endanger its peace, it
being well known that the unpleasant difficulties already existing there
have entirely prevented the due impartial administration of justice.
Twelfth, Resolved, That this meeting deem it proper to recommend that
a small military force be stationed in Hancock county until next spring to
prevent depredations upon private property and preserve the peace of said
county and that it be respectfully yet earnestly recommended to the
executive of this state to furnish the same for the purpose above named.'
ADDITIONAL RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED AT THE SAME MEETING `Resolved, That a
committee of five be appointed for the purpose of adopting and carrying
into operation a volunteer military organization for Adams county, and
said committee are hereby authorized to do all things lawful, necessary
and proper for the purpose of preparing such a force, without delay, to be
used to preserve the peace of this and the adjoining counties.
Resolved, That the committee appointed to visit Nauvoo deserve and
receive our warmest thanks, for the prompt, able and efficient manner in
which they discharged the duties confided to them.
Resolved, That the chairman of this meeting be and he is hereby
vested with full power and authority to call an adjourned meeting at any
time he may deem the public exigencies require it,
Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be published in the
city papers and copies thereof transmitted to the governor of the state,
and to the church authorities of Nauvoo by the chairman and secretary of
this meeting.'
Saturday, 4.----Attended General Council at Seventies' Hall. While
riding to the hall with Elders H. C. Kimball and W. Richards, Elder
Richards prophesied that we should have means to move all the poor and
want for nothing. Elder Kimball said, amen.
The correspondence from General Hardin and suite, the governor, and
the Resolutions by the citizens of Quincy were read to the council.
I proposed that we cease publishing the Nauvoo Neighbor and save our
paper inasmuch as our papers rarely get beyond the hands of our enemies.
Any information we want to send abroad we will publish in circulars and
extras.
Elder Richards moved that the next number of the Times and Seasons
close that paper and that the minutes of the conference be published in
the Nauvoo Neighbor.
I proposed that we appoint a committee of three to select and
preserve the statements of the press of the United States concerning us,
and proposed that Elders Parley P. Pratt, Orson Spencer and Wm, W. Phelps
be a committee to write a pointed document relating to the treatment we
have received from the United States.
The committee who were appointed by the President to acquire and lay
before the council all the necessary information in regard to the
outfitting of families for emigration west of the mountains submit the
following report obtained from calculation and from the best works on the
subject:
REQUIREMENTS OF EACH FAMILY OF FIVE FOR THE JOURNEY ACROSS THE PLAINS
`Each family consisting of five adults, will require 1 good strong wagon,
well covered. 3 good yokes of oxen between the ages of four and ten. Two
or more cows. One or more good beeves, some sheep if they have them.
One thousand pounds of flour or other bread stuff and good sacks to
put it in.
One bushel of beans.
One hundred pounds of sugar.
One good musket or rifle to each man.
One pound of powder and three lbs. lead (or perhaps more).
Two lbs. tea, 5 lbs. coffee.
Twenty-five pounds of salt.
A few pounds of dried beef, or bacon, as they choose,
A good tent and furniture to each two families.
From ten to fifty pounds of seed to a family.
And from twenty-five to one hundred pounds of farming or other tools.
Clothing and bedding to each family of five persons not to exceed
five hundred pounds.
One or more sets of saw and gristmill irons to each company of one
hundred families.
Cooking utensils to consist of a bake-kettle, frying-pan, coffee pot,
tin cups, plates, and forks, spoons, pans, etc., etc., as few as will do.
A few goods to trade with the Indians.
A little iron and steel, a few pounds of nails.
Each wagon supposed to be loaded on the start with one ton without
the persons or twenty-eight hundred including them.
If going to the coast it is not necessary to carry seed wheat, oats
or grass. Nor are cattle and sheep absolutely necessary except to live on
while upon the journey, as the country abounds in both cattle and sheep. A
few horses will be necessary for each company. Also a few cannon and
ammunition for the same. The journey to the coast will require some four
or five months, being upwards of two thousand miles.
There was also added two sets of pulley blocks and rope for crossing
rivers to each company.
Two ferry boats to each company.
One keg of alcohol of five gallons for each two families.
Ten pounds of dried apples for each family.
Five pounds of dried peaches.
Twenty pounds of dried pumpkin.
Two pounds of black pepper.
One pound of cayenne.
One-half pound mustard.
Twelve nutmegs. One fish seine for each company. Hooks and lines for
each family.'"
CHAPTER XXXIII
LAST CONFERENCE AT NAUVOO----PLEA OF THE MOTHER
OF PROPHETS"----PATHETIC
"Sunday October 5 1845.---- FIRST MEETING IN THE TEMPLE Through the
indefatigable exertions, unceasing industry, and heaven-blessed labors, in
the midst of trials, tribulations, poverty, and worldly obstacles,
solemnized in some instances, by death, about five thousand saints had the
inexpressible joy and great gratification to meet for the first time in
the House of the Lord in the City of Joseph. From miles and tithing
millions had risen up to the glory of God, as a Temple, where the children
of the last kingdom could come together and praise the Lord.
It certainly afforded a holy satisfaction to think that since the
sixth of April, 1841, when the first stone was laid, amidst the most
straitened circumstances, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
had witnessed their bread cast upon waters, or more properly, their
obedience to the commandments of the Lord, appear in the tangible form of
a Temple, entirely enclosed, windows in; with temporary floors, pulpits
and seats to accommodate so many persons preparatory to a General
Conference; no General Conference having been held for three years past,
according to the declaration of our martyred Prophet:----
`There shall be no more baptisms for the dead, until the ordinance
can be attended to in the font of the Lord's House; and the church shall
not hold another General Conference, until they can meet in said house.
For thus saith the Lord.'
I [Brigham Young] opened the services of the day by a dedicatory
prayer, presenting the Temple, thus far completed, as a monument of the
saints' liberality, fidelity, and faith, concluding: `Lord, we dedicate
this house and ourselves, to thee,' The day was occupied most agreeably in
hearing instructions and teachings, and offering up the gratitude of
honest hearts for so great a privilege, as worshiping God within instead
of without an edifice, whose beauty and workmanship will compare with any
house of worship in America, and whose motto is: `HOLINESS TO THE LORD'.
Monday, 6.---- CONFERENCE MINUTES "Minutes of the first General
Conference, which was ever held by the church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, in the House of the Lord in the City of Joseph,
commencing on Monday, October 6th, 1845, ten o'clock forenoon.
Present----Elder Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles; also Elders Heber C, Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Willard Richards,
John Taylor, George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman; Patriarchs John Smith and
Isaac Morley; Presiding Bishops Newel K. Whitney and George Miller; also
the authorities of the church generally.
The conference was opened with singing by the choir, and prayer by
Elder Parley P. Pratt. Elder Willard Richards then arose and read over
some notices concerning lost property, concerts, etc. He then stated, that
the President had waited from half past nine to near eleven o'clock, for
the people to get together; he exhorted the brethren to be more punctual,
as so much time lost could not be recalled, and we have a great amount of
business, which must necessarily be attended to during conference, He next
stated that General Hardin had requested us to make out a list of all the
buildings belonging to our brethren which have been burned by our enemies,
and also had requested that all those who have had their buildings or
other property destroyed should make affidavit of the same before a
justice of the peace, and have their affidavits ready to be forwarded to
him at as early a season as possible.
FIRST BUSINESS---PRESENTATION OF AUTHORITIES FOR APPROVAL President
Brigham Young then rose and said: the first business that will come before
this conference, will be to present the authorities of the church to
ascertain whether they are in good standing.
Father John Smith, the president of the stake, then arose and
presented the Twelve as the Presidents of the whole church; which was
seconded and carried unanimously.
It was then moved that Brigham Young be continued and sustained as
the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried
unanimously.
It was next moved that Heber C. Kimball be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Orson Hyde be continued and sustained as one
of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Parley P. Pratt be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Orson Pratt be continued and sustained as one
of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously,
It was next moved, that William Smith be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded. Whereupon Elder Orson Pratt arose
and said:
`I have an objection to Brother William continuing in that office. I
feel, as an individual, that I cannot, conscientiously, uphold and sustain
Brother William as one of the Twelve Apostles, until he thinks different
from what he does now. I have many reasons for this, but I will merely
mention one or two, which must suffice for the present. In the first
place, I have proof positive that he is an aspiring man; that he aspires
to uproot and undermine the legal Presidency of the Church, that he may
occupy the place himself. This he has "owed openly in the east, which I
can prove by good and substantial witnesses, In the second place, while
Brother William was in the east, to my certain knowledge, his doctrine and
conduct have not had a savory influence; but have produced death and
destruction wherever he went. This also I am well prepared to prove. I
have been waiting in all long suffering, for an alteration in Brother
William's course, but up to the present time, I have been disappointed.
For these two reasons, 1 would plead for one, that we no longer sustain
him in his office, till a proper investigation can be had, and he make
satisfaction. I do this individually; I leave others to do as they
please.'
The motion being seconded, a vote was then taken to sustain him, but
was lost unanimously.
It was next moved that John E. Page be continued and sustained as one
of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Willard Richards be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved, that Wilford Woodruff be continued and sustained
as one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously,
It was next moved that John Taylor be continued and sustained as one
of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that George A. Smith be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Lyman Wight be continued and sustained as one
of the Twelve Apostles; whereupon Elder A. W. Babbitt said:
`As Elder Orson Pratt remarked, concerning William Smith, that he
could not conscientiously vote to sustain him, so I say in regard to Lyman
Wight, I cannot conscientiously give my vote in his favor. My reason is
this: If there is a council in this church that ought to be united, and
act in unison as one man, it is the Council of the Twelve. If the head is
sick, the whole body is afflicted. If I am rightly informed concerning
Brother Wight's conduct, for the past year, he has not acted in unison
with the Twelve, nor according to their counsel. The last year has been
one of affliction, persecution and sorrow, when the adversary has
continually sought to destroy and mutilate the church; and it has required
all the faith, prayers and perseverance of the leaders, to save this
people from the grasp of the destroyer. If the counsel of Brother Wight
had been followed, this Temple would not have been built, nor the
baptismal font erected. He has sought to draw away a part of the force,
which we ought to have had to build this Temple. His teachings have been
contrary to the counsel of the church, and his conduct calculated to
destroy it. Under circumstances of this kind, I cannot conscientiously
vote to continue him in his standing, until he retracts, and makes
satisfaction. Brother Wight's course has been calculated to divide the
church, and prevent those things being accomplished, which were commanded
of God by the Prophet Joseph.'
Elder Kimball arose and said:---- `It is well known, that Brother
Wight's case was had before the conference last spring, and that he was
dropped, and then again retained; that is, that we would let him be, and
see what he would do, and what course he would take. He has been away ever
since; and is with a small company somewhere; we cannot tell what he is
doing; he may in his own mind, be acting in concert with the rest, and he
may be acting for the good of this people. It would be my mind, to let his
case lay over for the present, until we can learn something from him.'
Whereupon it was moved, that we let the case of Brother Lyman Wight
lay over for the present until we hear from him. Seconded and carried
unanimously.
It was next moved that Amasa M. Lyman be continued and sustained as
one of the Twelve Apostles; seconded and carried unanimously.
Elder Isaac Morley arose and said; he would next present William
Smith as the patriarch of the Church; and moved that he be continued and
sustained in that office; seconded and lost unanimously.
President Brigham Young stated, that about three years ago, Elder
Willard Richards was appointed by President Joseph Smith, as Historian for
the Church' and general Church Recorder. We have previously acted on his
appointment to office, as Recorder, but not as Historian. He would
therefore move, that we receive the appointment of Brother Joseph, and
that we continue and sustain Elder Richards as Historian for the Church,
and General Church Recorder; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Father John Smith be continued and sustained
as president of this stake of Zion; and that Isaac Morley and Charles C.
Rich be continued and sustained as his counselors; seconded and carried
unanimously.
It was next moved that Samuel Bent be continued and sustained in his
office as president of the high council; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved, that George W. Harris, Alpheus Cutler, James
Allred, Thomas Grover, Henry G. Sherwood, William Huntington, Sen., Lewis
D. Wilson, Newel Knight, David Fullmer, Aaron Johnson, and Ezra T. Benson
each be continued and sustained as members of the high council; seconded
and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that George Miller be continued and sustained as
president of the high priests' quorum, and that William Snow and Noah
Packard be continued as his counselors; seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Joseph Young be continued and sustained in his
office as the Senior President of the First Quorum of the Seventy;
seconded and carried unanimously.
It was next moved that Levi W. Hancock, Henry Harriman, Zera
Pulsipher, Daniel S. Miles, Jedediah M. Grant, each be continued and
sustained as one of the Seven Presidents over all the Seventies; seconded
and carried unanimously.
Elder George A. Smith remarked that Roger Orton was one of the `Old
Camp' and was selected a year ago to be one of the seven Presidents of
the Seventy; but he had never received his ordination nor done anything to
magnify his calling. It is not to be expected that we shall wait year
after year for men to come forward and fill their offices. Brother Orton
was one of the Old Camp, and we love him on that account; we always called
him the `Big Major', and a first rate man; but he has not come forward
since his appointment to magnify his calling.
Elder Joseph Young said:
`Last spring I visited Roger Orton and apprised him of his
appointment. He agreed to come as early as convenient, and receive his
ordination; and I gave him to understand, if he did not come and act in
his office, he would be dropped. Brother Orton has always sustained
Brother Joseph and the church, but he has very little of the spirit; he
has been in the church about twelve years, but never has been active since
his discharge from the camp that went up to Missouri in 1834, It was by
the counsel of the Twelve that he was appointed one of the Presidents of
the Seventy. I have no particular desire to plead for him, but if his case
can be laid over, I think he can be saved in that office, but I will be
subject to counsel. I have considerable feeling for him; he lost all his
property in Missouri, and has since addicted himself to drinking whiskey;
that seems to have ruined him, but he may be reclaimed.'
President Brigham Young arose and said, he would preach one of Dow's
short sermons:----
"If you won't when you can, when you will you shan't'. `I say if men
will not act and magnify their calling, let more honorable men be
appointed. Roger Orton is keeping a public house at Augusta and has had
sufficient time to come and prove himself a worthy man in his office, but
has not done it; and I say let a more honorable man take the crown. If he
won't work now, when will he?'
It was then. moved that we drop him; seconded and carried
unanimously.
Moved that Samuel Williams be continued and sustained as president of
the elders' quorum, and Jesse Baker and Joshua Smith be continued and
sustained as his counselors; seconded and carried unanimously.
Moved that Newel K. Whitney be continued and sustained as the first
Bishop of the Church; and that George Miller be continued and sustained as
his associated seconded and carried unanimously.
Moved that Stephen M. Farnsworth be continued and sustained as
president of the priests' quorum; and chat William Carmichael and
---------- Betts be continued' and sustained as his counselors; seconded
and carried unanimously.
Moved that Elisha Averett be continued and sustained as president of
the teachers' quorum; as also his former counselors; seconded and carried
unanimously.
President Brigham Young moved, that there be a quorum of deacons
selected, and a president over them, and that the Presiding Bishops see to
it, as soon as possible and make report to this conference before its
close; seconded and carried unanimously.
Conference then adjourned till two o'clock p. m. Benediction by Elder
G. A. Smith.
Two p. m.----The house was called to order by Elder Taylor; the choir
sang `The Prodigal Son'. Elder Taylor read a list of the sick, and offered
up prayer; after which the choir sang another hymn.
Whereupon Elder Parley P. Pratt addressed the conference on the
subject of our present situation and prospects. He referred to the great
amount of expense and labor we have been at to purchase lands, build
houses, the Temple, etc.; we might ask, why is it that we have been at all
this out lay and expense, and then are called to leave it? He would answer
that the people of God always were required to make sacrifices, and if we
have a sacrifice to make, he is in favor of its being something worthy of
the people of God.
`We do not want to leave a desolate place, to be a reproach to us,
but something that [will be a monument to those] who may visit the place
of our industry, diligence and. virtue. There is no sacrifice required at
the hands of the people of God but shall be rewarded to them an hundred
fold, in time or eternity.
`The Lord has another purpose to bring about and to fulfill: We know
that the great work of God must all the while be on the increase and grow
greater. The people must enlarge--in numbers and extend their borders;
they cannot always live in one city, nor in one county;
they cannot always wear the yoke; Israel must be the head and not the
tail. The Lord designs to lead us to a wider field of action, where there
will be more room for the saints to grow and increase, and where there
will be no one to say we crowd them, and where we can enjoy the pure
principles of liberty and equal rights.
`When we settle a country where the air, the water, soil and timber
is equally free to every settler without money or without price, the
climate healthy, and the people free from unjust and vexatious lawsuits,
mobocracy, and oppression of every kind, we can become vastly more
wealthy, have better possessions and improvements, and build a larger and
better Temple in five years from this time than we now possess.
`It has cost us more for sickness, defense against mobs, vexatious
prosecutions, and to purchase lands in this place, than as much
improvement will cost in another.
One small nursery may produce many thousands of fruit trees, while
they are small. But as they expand towards maturity, they must needs be
transplanted, in order to have room to grow and produce the natural
fruits. It is so with us. We want a country where we have room to expand,
and to put in requisition all our energies and the enterprise and talents
of a numerous, intelligent and increasing people. In our natural state,
ask yourselves if you could be brought to endure and enjoy a celestial
law, without an experience of the kind we have passed through for the last
fifteen years?
`In short, this people are fast approaching that point which ancient
prophets have long since pointed out as the destiny of the saints of the
last days.'
After many other spirited remarks touching similar points, he was
succeeded by Elder George A. Smith, on the same subject. Elder Smith
observed that a revelation was given in Missouri in regard to the saints
consecrating their property which was not understood at the time; but they
were soon brought to their understanding, for the Lord in his providence
caused it all to be consecrated, for they were compelled to leave it.
He is glad of the prospect of leaving this county and seeking a place
where we can enjoy the fruits of our labors and God himself be the sole
proprietor of the elements.
Here is one principle in which he wants this whole people to unite.
When we were to leave Missouri the saints entered into a covenant not to
cease their exertions until every saint who wished to go was removed,
which was done.
We are better off now than we were then, and he wants to see the same
principle carried out now, that every man will give all to help to take
the poor; and every honest industrious member who wants to go. He wants to
see this influence extend from the west to the east sea.
After which President Brigham Young moved that we take all the saints
with us, to the extent of our ability, that is, our influence and
property: seconded by Elder Kimball, and carried unanimously. Elder
Brigham Young continued:
`If you will be faithful to your covenant, I will now prophesy that
the great God will shower down means upon this people, to accomplish it
[the resolution] to the very letter. I thank God that the time has come so
much sooner than I expected, that that scripture is being fulfilled, `My
people shall be willing in the day of my power'; and I almost feel to
thank our friends abroad for hastening it on now.'
Elder Parley P. Pratt made some remarks relative to the brethren
being all on a level when they left Missouri. He referred to the Whitmer
family monopolizing timber; advised liberality with wood.
Elder H. C. Kimball moved that every man who owned a woodlot should
on application, let the poor, the sick, and the needy who wanted wood,
have it; and those who have teams should assist in hauling it to them;
seconded and carried unanimously.
It was requested by President Young that no man go into another's
woods without the consent of the owner; and then take it clean and be
careful of the timber.
Benediction by W. W. Phelps and adjourned until tomorrow at ten a. m.
Tuesday, October 7, 1845.----Conference met pursuant to adjournment
at ten a. m. Meeting called to order by president of the stake. Choir sang
a hymn. Prayer by Elder Phelps. Choir then sang another hymn.
Elder Heber C. Kimball then addressed the conference.
`This is a hard place for anyone to speak in, and there are many
things still necessary to lay before this conference. For my part I am
done preaching to this nation; at least for the present. I have been forth
through the United States and Europe, in fact, I have spent my whole time
at it, since I came into the church. It is now all counsel for me---We
have a great many things to say today; and I suppose we shall always have
plenty to do. I presume many have got out of business; but we will now
have work enough, to get ready to go to some other country; to get there,
and to plough our fields when we get there. I have seen people crying and
weeping, and mourning, because they had nothing to do; but when we leave
this place, you will never have cause to weep for not having anything to
do, from this time forth, and forever more, if you are faithful to your
calling. I am glad the time of our exodus is come; I have looked for it
for years. It is necessary for us to be faithful and humble, and if we
listen to counsel we shall prosper. And although we leave all our fine
houses and farms here, how long do you think it will be before we shall be
better off than we are now? I have no farm to leave; I never had that
privilege. Many of the brethren have farms; but there are many who have
spent their whole time in the service of the church, for fourteen or
fifteen years, who never had a farm. When we get to a new country, some of
these old veterans will be looked after first; and I rejoice in it. We are
now about coming to the Apostolic religion; i. e., you will sell all, and
come and lay it down at the Apostles' feet. But it has taken a good
scourging for fifteen years to bring us to this. There may be individuals
who will look at their pretty houses and gardens and say, `it is hard to
leave them'; but I tell you, when we start, you will put on your
knapsacks, and follow after us. Before I was baptized, I believed we
should come into an Apostolic religion. As for a Common Stock Business
Religion, such as many preach, I do not believe in it. Every man will be a
steward over his house and property; and if he is an unfaithful steward,
his stewardship will be given to another. I will prophesy in the name of
Heber C. Kimball, that in five years, we will be as well again off as we
are now. Those brethren who have gone off and labored among the Gentiles,
are not as well off as we are; some have eighty dollars, some an hundred,
and some fifty dollars due them; and their `friends' have driven them away
penniless; and they have had to flee for safety to Nauvoo. Those who
remained here, are better off. Since we have had an invitation from our
`friends' to leave the county, many have asked, shall we go and labor for
them? They may go, if they have a mind to; but I won't do it; I'll see
them go the other way first.
`I positively know men, that have gone to labor for those, who with
uplifted hands, swore they would take President Brigham Young's life and
my own. If it is your feeling to tarry here, and labor for each other to
get away, manifest it (clear vote). At the last conference, a vote was
passed that the Gentiles were cut off; and now, why do you want to labor
for them. Inasmuch as the Gentiles reject us, lo! we turn to the Jews.
`Again; there is a constant running to the Twelve, and saying `Can't
we go in your company?' We calculate you are all going in the first
company, both old and young, rich and poor; for there will be but one
company. Probably we will sometimes be the first, and then again the last,
sometimes in one place, sometimes in another. Some say, `ah! you are going
ahead, and taking the band;' but we will be with all of you.
`We first made a selection of one hundred, and when we had done, we
found we could not be satisfied without taking the whole; and so we
finally concluded we would take you all with us, and have but one company.
There is no use in making selections, for you are all good; but there is
still a chance for us all to be a great deal better. We have no
partiality; we have a common interest, for the welfare of this whole
people, and we feel to advocate your cause like a father would advocate
the cause of his children.
`When men come in here to divide you, and when the mob came, did we
flee? No! No! the hireling fleeth, but we felt like a father, and if you
had to die, we would die with you. We want to feed the sheep, to nourish
them; they have a tremendous journey to take; and when we see one that is
weak and feeble, we will take it up, put it into a wagon, and take you all
with us, We have had sorrow and could not sleep on your accounts: if we
had no anxiety for you, we should have fled into the wilderness and left
you.
`We want to take you to a land, where a white man's foot never trod,
nor a lion's whelps, nor the devil's; and there we can enjoy it, with no
one to molest and make us afraid; and we will bid all the nations welcome,
whether Pagans, Catholics, or Protestants. We are not accounted as white
people, and we don't want to live among them. I had rather live with the
buffalo in the wilderness; and I mean to go if the Lord will let me, and
spare my life. Let us become passive as clay in the hands of the potter:
if we don't we will be cut from the wheel and thrown back in the mill
again, like the Fosters, Higbees, and others. They want to come into
Nauvoo again; but we won't let them, until we have all the good clay out,
and have made it into vessels of honor to our Heavenly Father: then they
may come and be ground.
Elder Lyman next arose and remarked;
`President Young says, we did not calculate to be in a hurry. It
would be a matter of gratification, if I could express my feelings; but I
have so many of them that I can't do it.
`There has been in the progress of this church an ample manifestation
of the various windings and dispositions of man. A person cannot fail to
perceive it, when he will observe and reflect, and doubtless those who
have reflected may be satisfied, that the course of this people is
unalterably fixed. I am glad it is not controlled by any human being. We
have contended with opposition when it appeared impossible for us to
overcome, and yet we have triumphed; and this people are becoming great
and numerous.
`Perhaps in the congregation before me there is every variety of
feeling, which can be found on the face of the earth: yet we find their
feelings undergoing a change, and that this people are approximating to a
Oneness; the people are becoming one, and their interests one. When they
first heard the gospel, they hailed and cherished it with joy; and they
have come up here to receive additional instruction: yet perhaps, they
have made but a limited calculation of how far they would have to go, in
obedience and sacrifices, and to how much persecution and suffering they
would be subject that they might come up out of the fire as gold seven
times tried.
`It has been said, that after a time, the Lord will accomplish a
certain something: That after men had endeavored to build up kingdoms, and
seen them crumble to the dust and disappear; he had said, he would build
up a kingdom which would stand forever, and become a universal kingdom:
and moreover the Prophet said, `it should break in pieces every other
kingdom'. If any man had preached this, he would have been considered
guilty of treason. But those whom the Christian world consider as better
men than we are, have said it; men, whom they say were better, and had
knowledge, power, and virtue, more than they will now admit is lawful for
us in this enlightened age to enjoy.
`It has been said, that we should leave this country next spring; if
the Lord is willing and the people have no objections. (And we don't care
much whether they have or not; we calculate to go about next spring). And
we calculate to go the same people we are now; preserving the same
principles which have caused us to grow and expand as we have done. This
people have grown until there is not room for them to grow, and now they
need transplanting, where they can have more room: and however much the
people may seem disposed to not go, the sails are set, the wind is fair,
and we are bound to weather the point, whether we will or no; for we are
not at the helm; and whine and complain as much as you please, you have
got to weather the point. Brother Kimball says, the whiners will have to
go behind! So if you want to go in the company of the Twelve, you must not
whine. Some persons suppose that when they had once lost their all, they
had suffered enough: to hear them talk you would suppose that John the
Revelator, when they tried to boil him in oil, or the three Hebrew
children in the fiery furnace, seven times heated---never suffered half as
much, nor felt half so uncomfortable as they. They have to get rich, and
be made poor, about twenty times over, before they will come straight. I
expect the rich will have to be made poor until the poor are made rich;
and then there will be nobody poor. When the rich are rich; and the poor
are rich; then there will be nobody rich and nobody poor; for all will be
on a level.
`God did not say, that this man or that man should build up the
kingdom, that was to break in pieces all other kingdoms; but he said he
would do it himself; and whenever this people were unwilling to do as the
Lord would have them he has taken his rod and scourged them, until they
were forced to do it. The Lord once said he would make Kirtland a
stronghold for a time; and he has done it. He said in Missouri he would
sustain the saints for a time; and he did it. And when we came here, the
Lord said, that if the people of the state of Illinois would maintain us
in our rights they would be blessed; if not we might find it to our
advantage to leave them.'
The names of Company No. 5 were then called over, with orders to meet
after meeting at the old stand.
Elder Taylor made some remarks in behalf of the suffering poor in the
north part of town; and called upon all to come forward to aid the bishops
in supplying these poor families.
Elder George A. Smith said there were many coming to get leaders of
the companies appointed; and remarked you need not be in a hurry for the
Twelve will take care to have proper captains appointed in due time; and
all will move on like clockwork. But we must not hurry business.
The Patriarch, John Smith, appointed four bishops to stand at the
door, to take a collection for the benefit of the poor.
The choir sang and the meeting was dismissed until 2 o'clock p. m.
Benediction by George A. Smith.
All the single men who want to come into the 1st company or company
of the Twelve, were notified to give in their names.
At 2 o'clock.----President Brigham Young came to the stand and
dismissed the meeting until tomorrow at 10 o clock a. m. This was done on
account of a body of armed men having suddenly entered the city. Not
knowing but this was a move by the mob, the President requested all the
brethren to go home and prepare themselves for any emergency. He, however,
soon ascertained that W. B. Warren, Esq. was at the head of the troops and
that they had come in on business.
The President then informed the people of this fact; and requested
them to retire to their homes in peace; concluding his remarks with these
words, `Be ye also ready'.
Wednesday, October 8, 1845.----Conference opened at the usual hour
with singing and prayer.
Mother Lucy Smith, the aged and honored parent of Joseph Smith,
having expressed a wish to say a few words to the congregation, she was
invited upon the stand. She spoke at considerable length and in an audible
manner, so as to be heard by a large portion of the vast assembly.
She commenced by saying that she was truly glad that the Lord had let
her see so large a congregation. She had a great deal of advice to give,
but Brother Brigham Young had done the errand, he had fixed it completely.
There were comparatively few in the assembly who were acquainted with her
family. She was the mother of eleven children, seven of whom were boys.
She raised them in the fear and love of God, and never was there a more
obedient family. She warned parents that they were accountable for their
children's conduct; advised them to give them books and work to keep them
from idleness; warned all to be full of love, goodness and kindness, and
never to do in secret what they would not do in the presence of millions.
She wished to know of the congregation whether they considered her a
mother in Israel (upon which President Brigham Young said: all who
consider Mother Smith as a mother in Israel, signify it by saying
yes!----One universal `yes' rang throughout). She remarked that it was
just eighteen years since Joseph Smith the Prophet had become acquainted
with the contents of the plates; and then in a concise manner related over
the most prominent points in the early history of her family; their
hardships, trials, privations, persecutions, sufferings, etc.; some parts
of which melted those who heard her to tears, more especially the part
relating to a scene in Missouri, when her beloved son Joseph was condemned
to be shot in fifteen minutes, and she by prodigious efforts was enabled
to press through the crowd to where he was, and to give him her hand; but
could not see his face; he took her hand and kissed it she said, let me
hear your voice once more my son; he said, `God bless you my dear mother!'
She gave notice that she had written her history, and wished it printed
before we leave this place. She then mentioned a discourse once delivered
by Joseph after his return from Washington, in which he said that he had
done all that could be done on earth to obtain justice for their wrongs;
but they were all, from the president to the judge, determined not to
grant justice, But, said he, keep good courage, these cases are recorded
in heaven, and I am going to lay them before the highest court in heaven.
`Little', said she, `did I then think he was so soon to leave us, to take
the case up himself. And don't you think this case is now being tried? I
feel as though God was vexing this nation a little, here and there, and I
feel that the Lord will let Brother Brigham take the people away. Here, in
this city, lay my dead; my husband and children; and if so be the rest of
my children go with you, and would to God they may all go), they will not
go without me; and if I go, I want my bones brought back in case I die
away, and deposited with my husband and children.' (Mother
Smith said many more good things, but the rest being inaudible to the
reporters, they are lost).
President Brigham Young then arose and said he wanted to relate to
the congregation the last closing remarks of Mother Smith; inasmuch as she
could not be heard by all.
`Mother Smith proposes a thing which rejoices my heart: she will go
with us. I can answer for the authorities of the church; we want her and
her children to go with us; and I pledge myself in behalf of the
authorities of the church, that while we have anything, they shall share
with us. We have extended the helping hand to Mother Smith. She has the
best carriage in the city and while she lives, shall ride in it when and
where she pleases.
`When William came here we furnished him a span of horses and a
carriage and a house and Brother Kimball became responsible for the rent
of it. He has run away in a time of trouble; but I suppose will come back
when it is peace, and we mean to have him with us yet.'
(Mother Smith here interrupted President Young, but inaudible to the
reporters) . President Young continued:
`Mother Smith has been relating over the circumstances of her
pecuniary life of late; she is perfectly satisfied, and all is right. I
could have wished that the bishops would visit her more frequently; but
they have done pretty well---and I say in the name of the Latter-day
Saints, we will supply her wants; and I want the people to take anything
they have for her to her, and let her do with it as she pleases. I have
never asked her to go for she had told me she would not; but now she has
offered it. Mother Smith proposes that she will go with us, if we will
promise to bring back her remains in case of her death and deposit them
with her husband's. Also Joseph once said, with outstretched arms, `If I
fall in battle in Missouri, I want you to bring my bones back, and deposit
them in that sepulchre--I command you to do it in the name of the Lord.'
And I pledge myself if Mother Smith goes with us and I outlive her, I will
do my best to bring her bones back again, and deposit them with her
children, and I want to know if this people are willing to enter into a
covenant to do the same.' (Unanimous vote),
President Brigham Young continued: `We are determined also to use
every means in our power to do all that Joseph told us. And we will
petition Sister Emma in the name of Israel's God, to let us deposit the
remains of Joseph according as he commanded us. And if she will not
consent to it, our garments are clear. Then when he awakes in the morning
of the resurrection, he shall talk with them, not with me; the sin shall
be upon her head, not ours.'
Meeting was adjourned to two p. m.
Benediction by President Brigham Young.
2 p. m.----Conference met pursuant to adjournment.
Meeting called to order by Elder Joseph Young. Choir sang `The Spirit
of God Like a Fire is Burning'. Prayer by Elder Taylor. Choir sang again.
Elder Taylor then arose and said:
`There is one piece of business which devolves upon me to bring
before this conference; and that is the printing. As we have done
preaching, so we have done printing to the people; and now let them alone
and mind our own business, and let them print what they have a mind to. It
has been thought best to publish the conference minutes, and let that
finish the subject; but I have thought it would perhaps be better to
continue the Times and Seasons until the volume be completed. And if we do
not circulate them abroad, we can at home, in the neighborhood. There are
reasons for it. First, many are anxious about items of doctrine which the
saints want; and many want to have the volume completed. As to the Nauvoo
Neighbor, it is more connected with temporal matters, news, etc., and we
don't care so much about that. The world doesn't wish any news from us,
and we don't wish to urge it upon them. I have read papers until I have
become tired; for they are all villainy, corruption, deceit and
abomination; and I shall be glad when we get to a place where we can be at
peace. In regard to discontinuing the papers, I will do as I am counseled.
Some may consider that they will be injured by stopping the paper; but I
will give four or five dollars worth of obligations for everyone they can
present against me. No man can say that I have asked pay for a paper,
though hundreds here are owing me for it. I will abide counsel, but am
willing to publish the Times and Seasons until the end of the volume.'
Elder Kimball moved that we discontinue the Nauvoo Neighbor after one
number; and that the Times and Seasons continue from time to time, till
the volume is closed; seconded and carried.
The next item of business is to appoint committees to sell houses,
farms, lots, etc., that they can be referred to for sales,
Nauvoo. ---- Winslow Farr, Edward Hunter, Rufus Beach, A. W. Babbit,
Joseph L. Heywood, John Benbow, and Daniel Russell.
La Harpe.----Lyman Corey, John Clark and John L. Bartolph.
Macedonia.----Wm. G. Perkins, Isaac Clark and Andrew H. Perkins.
Camp Creek.----L. A. Bingham.
Bear Creek.----Nelson Higgins, Samuel Shepherd and Daniel Allen.
Knowlton's Settlement.---- Sidney A. Knowlton, Eleazer Brown and
James Rawlins.
Highland Branch.----James Duncan, Wm. A. Duncan, and John Loveless.
Montebello----Eleazer Miller and Jesse Spurgin.
Yelrome.----Solomon Hancock and Horace Rawson.
In Iowa, every man is appointed to act as a committee of the whole
for the sale of lands.
Elder Kimball said; there is yet another piece of business of great
importance to all who have families; that is, to have some school books
printed for the education of our children, which will not be according to
the Gentile order.
Elder W. W. Phelps said:
`As a people we are fast approaching a desired end, which may
literally be called a beginning. Thus far, we cannot be reproached with
being backward in instruction. By revelation, in 1831, I was appointed to
`do the work of printing, and of selecting and writing books for schools
in this church, that little children might receive instruction;' and since
then I have received a further sanction. We are preparing to go out from
among the people, where we can serve God in righteousness; and the first
thing is, to teach our children; for they are as the Israel of old. It is
our children who will take the kingdom and bear it off to all the world.
The first commandment with promise to Israel was, Honor thy father and thy
mother, that thy days may be long in the land, which the Lord thy God
giveth thee.' We will instruct our children in the paths of righteousness;
and we want that instruction compiled in a book.'
Moved that W. W. Phelps write some school books for the use of
children; seconded and carried.
Elder Kimball said; the next item of business is whether or not there
shall be a general settlement with the Trustees-in-Trust, the Twelve, the
Temple Committee, and all others, so that we may not go away indebted to
the Lord, and I want to know if it is wisdom to take such a course or not.
But if we go away in debt, let it be to each other.
President Brigham Young said:
`One object of this settlement with us is, some of the Latter-day
Saints believe that the Twelve are supported out of the funds belonging to
this house; and I am not disposed to go away and the idea that I am in
debt to the Trustees, when I have put more into their hands than I have
taken out. Perhaps it will be a matter of curiosity to some how I get my
living. It is not by stealing!---but by good luck, and the providence of
God and good men. Those men who have done the most, are the nearest
square. I want the Twelve, and the committee, and all the people to settle
with the Trustees, and not go away in debt to the Lord; and then we will
have abundance to take away the poor.'
Elder Kimball moved, that the Twelve, the Temple Committee, and all
others settle with the Trustees-in-Trust; and that the Trustees-in-Trust
settle with the Presidency of the Church; seconded and carried. Elder
Kimball remarked, we shall now expect a settlement from all those who have
the wherewith, or you need not expect an endowment in this house.
President Joseph Smith said he would stand at the door with the books; you
will not see him, but you will see his successors, who will carry out his
designs.
Elder George A. Smith said the next item was of very great
importance:
`There has been more powder and ball wasted within the last two
weeks, than would supply all the people with meat for three months if they
were in a game country. What is the use of this waste? You cannot wake up
in the night, but you hear them cracking away. You can hardly walk the
streets, but sometimes a bullet will whistle over your head. Men say they
are afraid their guns won't go off, it is wet; then I am in favor of
getting something to draw (the charge from) them; I hope there will be no
more firing. If there was a mob in sight, you have time enough to load
your guns and fire on them. I want the powder and lead saved, so that when
you get to your journey's end, you can sustain yourselves with food. Save
your powder, caps and lead. I move that this conference discountenance all
firing in the city, by any man, by night or by day, in every possible
manner.'
Seconded and carried.
Elder H. C. Kimball said: `There are a good many complaints of late,
and I am sorry to hear it, of some of the neighbors having had their
cattle shot. Brother John Benbow has had fifteen wounded. I am ashamed of
a man who will do such things. The man that will destroy his neighbor's
property in that way, I will prophesy that the hand of God will be upon
him until he makes restitution, and he will not prosper.'
Moved, that all persons who have been guilty, or may be hereafter, of
shooting cattle, shall be cut off from the church, unless they make
restitution; seconded and carried.
Moved that all persons who will not take care of their unruly cattle,
shall be cut off from the church; seconded and carried.
President Young said: `I have a little corn, if it is destroyed it
may all go before I will have revenge. I am for keeping orderly and
obeying counsel. When we first (again) preached in the grove, I charged
the brethren not to let their cattle get into the gardens of the widows
and the sick; and if the widows shot them, I would stand between them and
harm, and someone, on the Friday following shot my only cow. I would have
given five half eagles to bring her back again. She was reared by my wife,
while I was on my mission to England, and was so gentle that my children
could sit under her and milk her and play between her horns without fear
of being hurt. Take care of your cattle, and feed them with your corn
stalks, cabbage, slops, etc.'
And he again charged the brethren not to touch any property which did
not belong to them; even if it be only a rail. He said:
`In Quincy they have decided that we shall not have any more law
suits. Judge Purple has agreed not to hold any more courts in this county:
(though we hear that he will), They are going to collect funds, as they
say, to assist the poor to move out of Nauvoo. If they have a mind to
bestow anything, let them give it to the Trustees, to be dealt out by
them. We don't know but they will yet do as they did in Missouri---take
our own property, and sell or bestow it upon us again at an extortionate
price, and call it a deed of charity. I will tell you what it will be---a
stink offering.'
Brother William Clayton then read a letter from Major Warren,
respecting the arrest of one Smith, for felony, yesterday.
Moved that this conference adjourn until the 6th of April next;
seconded and carried. WILLIAM CLAYTON, THOMAS BULLOCK, Clerks of
Conference.'"
CHAPTER XXXIV
OFFICIAL MESSAGE TO THE SAINTS IN THE UNITED STATES----REMOVAL OF
THE CHURCH TO THE WEST---- ORGANIZATION----OLIVER COWDERY'S TENDER OF
SERVICES----THE BIGELOW CASE----WARREN-YOUNG-TAYLOR OUTBREAK----THE
POWER OF PRAYER VS. MOBOCRACY----APPEAL TO GOVERNOR FORD
"Wednesday, October 8, 1845.---- EPISTLE TO THE BRETHREN OF THE
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, SCATTERED ABROAD THROUGH THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA `The Following Circular is Hereby Sent, Greeting:
Beloved Brethren:
You will perceive from the foregoing interesting Minutes of the
General Conference, just held in the Temple in this place [see Chapter
XXXIII] not only the unparalleled union of the great body of the saints
convened, but also that a crisis of extraordinary and thrilling interests
has arrived. The exodus of the nation of the only true Israel from these
United States to a far distant region of the west, where bigotry,
intolerance and insatiable oppression lose their power over them---forms a
new epoch, not only in the history of the church, but of this nation. And
we hereby timely advise you to consider well, as the spirit may give you
understanding, the various and momentous bearings of this great movement,
and hear what the spirit saith unto you by this our epistle.
Jesus Christ was delivered up into the hands of the Jewish nation to
save or condemn them, to be well or maltreated by them according to the
determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God. And regard not that even in
the light of a catastrophe wholly unlooked for. The spirit of prophecy has
long since portrayed in the Book of Mormon what might be the conduct of
this nation towards the Israel of the last days. The same spirit of
prophecy that dwelt richly in the bosom of Joseph has time and again
notified the counselors of this church of emergencies that might arise, of
which this removal is one; and one too in which all the Latter-day Saints
throughout the length and breadth of all the United States should have a
thrilling and deliberate interest. The same evil that premeditated against
Mordecai awaited equally all the families of his nation. If the
authorities of this church cannot abide in peace within the pale of this
nation, neither can those who implicitly hearken to their wholesome
counsel. A word to the wise is sufficient. You all know and have doubtless
felt for years the necessity of a removal provided the government [U. S.]
should not be sufficiently protective to allow us to worship God according
to the dictates of our own consciences, and of the omnipotent voice of
eternal truth. Two cannot walk together except they be agreed. Jacob must
be expatriated while Esau held dominion. It was wisdom for the child of
promise to go far away from him that thirsted for blood. Even the heir of
universal kingdoms fled precipitately into a distant country until they
that sought to murder (him) were dead. The ranklings of violence and
intolerance and religious and political strife that have long been waking
up in the bosom of this nation, together with the occasional
scintillations of settled vengeance, and blood guiltiness cannot long be
suppressed. And deplorable is the condition of any people that is
constrained to be the butt of such discordant and revolutionary materials.
The direful prophecy to foresee it. Every sensible man in the nation has
felt and perhaps expressed his melancholy fears of the dreadful vortex
into which partizan ambition, contempt of the poor, and trampling down the
just as things of nought were fast leading the nation. We therefore write
unto you beloved brethren, as wise men that will foresee the evil and hide
yourselves until the indignation be overpast.
Concerning those who have more immediately instigated our removal by
shedding the blood of our Prophet and Patriarch and burning the
habitations of scores of families in the midst of the most desolating
sickness ever known in the western valley; and who oblige us to watch for
our lives night and day---we have nothing to say. We have told such tales
to our father the president, and to all the high-minded governors, until
we are weary of it. We look far beyond those by whom offenses come, and
discover a merciful design in our heavenly Father towards all such as
patiently endure these afflictions until he advises them that the day of
their deliverance has come. It is our design to remove all the saints as
early next spring as the first appearance of thrifty vegetation. In the
meantime the utmost diligence of all the brethren at this place and abroad
will be requisite for our removal, and to complete the unfinished part of
the Lord's House, preparatory to dedication by the next General Conference
The font and other parts of the Temple will be in readiness in a few days
to commence the administration of holy ordinances of endowments, for which
the faithful have long diligently labored and fervently prayed, desiring
above all things to see the beauty of the Lord and inquire in his holy
Temple. We therefore invite the saints abroad generally so to arrange
their affairs as to come with their families in sufficient time to receive
their endowments, and aid in giving the last finish to the House of the
Lord previous to the great emigration of the church in the spring. A
little additional help in the heat of the day from those abroad, to those
here, who have been often driven and robbed will sweeten the interchange
of fellowship, and so far fulfill the law of Christ as to bear one
another's burdens. The sacrifice of property that will probably accrue
from a virtually coerced sale in a given short time together with the
exhaustion of available means, that has arisen from an extensive
improvement of farms, and the erection of costly public and private
edifices together with persecutions and abundant labors of elders in
preaching the gospel to the nations, and also in self-defense from
traitors and foes, hypocrites and knaves, are things that will suggest
themselves to all the thoughtful humane and philanthropic. And we are
confident in our Lord Jesus Christ that the balm and cordial adequate to
the present crisis of affairs, will come from the saints abroad to the
utmost of their ability, And you cannot furnish it better, than to come up
unitedly to the counsel of our epistle promptly, diligently and to the
letter. Therefore dispose of your properties and inheritance, and
interests for available means, such as money, wagons, oxen, cows, mules,
and a few good horses adapted to journeying and scanty feed. Also for
durable fabrics suitable for apparel and tents; and some other necessary
articles of merchandise. Wake up, wake up, dear brethren, we exhort you,
from the Mississippi to the Atlantic, and from Canada to Florida, to the
present glorious emergency in which the God of heaven has placed you to
prove your faith by your works, preparatory to a rich endowment in the
Temple of the Lord, and the obtaining of promises and deliverances, and
glories for yourselves and your children and your dead. And we are well
persuaded you will do these things, though we thus stir up your pure minds
to remembrance. In so doing, the blessings of many, ready to perish like
silent dew upon the grass, and the approbation of generations to come, and
the hallowed joys of eternal life will rest upon you. And we can not but
assure you in conclusion of our most joyful confidence, touching your
union and implicit obedience to the counsel of the Great God through the
Presidency of the saints. With these assurances and hopes concerning you,
we bless you and supplicate the wisdom and furtherance of the Great Head
of the Church upon your designs and efforts. [Signed] BRIGHAM YOUNG,
President. Willard Richards, Clerk.
N. B. Let all wagons that are hereafter built be constructed to the
track of five feet width from center to center. Families may properly
travel to this place during winter in their wagons. There are said to be
many good locations for settlements on the Pacific, especially at
Vancouver's Island near the mouth of the Columbia.'
A general meeting of the seventies at 8 a. m.; twenty-two members
were ordained for the thirty-first quorum.
Thursday, 9.----The seventies met in general conference. President
Joseph Young counseled the seventies to pay strict attention to the call
of their presidents and strongly exhorted them to pray unto the Lord day
and night, and trust in him for deliverance, for the fervent prayers and
faith of the saints would accomplish more than the strength of their arms,
for the Lord holds the destinies of all men in his hands and he will
control them according to his will and he has power to deliver us.
General Hardin has pledged himself to the mob that he will come to
Nauvoo with his troops and either arrest Orrin P. Rockwell and some others
of the brethren or he `will unroof every house in Nauvoo'. Three hundred
of our enemies have volunteered to come with him from Quincy and they
expect to be joined by others on the way.
There seems to be no disposition abroad but to massacre the whole
body of this people, and nothing but the power of God can save us from the
cruel ravages of the bloodthirsty mob.
We concluded to plead with our heavenly Father to preserve his
people, and the lives of his servants that the saints may finish the
Temple and receive their endowments.
Saturday, 11.----The council met at Elder Taylor's. We joined in
prayer, and wrote a circular for the agents to take abroad with them.
Afternoon, I remained at home being worn down with fatigue.
7 p. m., met for counsel and prayer. After prayer we finished an
extract from the conference minutes for the circular. Also appointed
additional captains of hundreds, making twenty-five companies, as follows:
1st, The Twelve; 2nd, Samuel Bent; 3rd, Alpheus Cutler; 4th, Isaac Morley;
5th
Shadrach Roundy; 6th, Reynolds Cahoon; 7th, Daniel Spencer; 8th,
Peter Haws; 9th, Joseph Fielding; 10th, John D. Parker; 11th, David
Fullmer; 12th, Charles Shumway; 13th, Charles C. Rich; 14th, Jedediah M.
Grant; 15th, Erastus Snow; 16th, Benjamin F. Johnson; 17th, Andrew H.
Perkins; 18th, George Coulson; 19th, David Evans; 20th, Daniel C. Davis;
21st, Jonathan H. Hale; 22nd, George P. Dykes, (Ottoway); 23rd,
Mephiboseth Sirrine, (Michigan); 24th, Hosea Stout; 25th, Wm. Huntington.
Bishop Miller, Sheriff Backenstos, and those who went with them to
Quincy, have all returned safely. Backenstos is bound over to court in
three thousand dollar bonds. General Hardin has gone to Springfield,
Tuesday, 14.----Major Warren came into the city with a detachment of
the troops.
We prayed that they might not be permitted to do any injury to any of
the saints; nor to interrupt our peace; they stayed but a short time.
Friday, 17.----Elder Orson Hyde returned from the east, having
purchased between four and five thousand yards of canvas for the
Tabernacle.
Wrote to General James Arlington Bennett in answer to several letters
from him, and some he had written which we have not received, as he sent
them by mail. We invited him to come out and see us, and make arrangements
and go to the mountains with us.
I received a letter from Oliver Cowdery dated, Tiffin, Ohio, October
7th, advising us to seek aid from the United States government and offered
his services as agent to see President Polk on the subject of removal
westward if the council desired it.
2 p. m., attended council at Elder Heber C. Kimball's.
The high council met for the last time in Nauvoo, at least, it is the
last minutes in their book.
Sunday, 19.----The congregation met in the Temple. Elder Orson Hyde
preached.
William Smith who has published a pamphlet against the Twelve was
excommunicated from the church by unanimous vote.
4 p. m., I met with the first Emigrating Company and proceeded with
the organization by appointing captains of fifties and tens.
Monday, 20.----Elder Orson Hyde made returns of money collected for
the Tabernacle $1415.38 1/2 c; he paid for canvas $1050.56 c and other
expenses $ 105.80 c.
Evening, the Twelve met in council at Elder Taylor's, General James
Arlington Bennett with us, he expressed himself opposed to our selling out
to gratify the mob, and would rather see us fight and maintain our ground.
Tuesday, 21.----We visited the Temple. General Bennett was highly
pleased with it.
Judge Purple is holding a court in Carthage.
I received the following:
LETTER FROM J. B. BACKENSTOS `Carthage, Illinois, October 21, 1845.
My Dear Friend: As yet nothing has been done to do us any good, the array
of grand and petit jurors has been set aside upon an affidavit of one of
the mobbers, William D. Abernathy, a notorious man has been appointed as
an elisor. Thomas C. Owen is also appointed for the other elisor so things
are taking a strong and decided stand against us and justice. Our judge
has so far decidedly shown himself in favor of the mob faction, and has so
far disgusted very many of the respectable persons at court, I confess I
am perfectly displeased with such judicial `humbugs'.
Our coroner, Henry W. Miller, has also been set aside as well as
myself, so you may understand where we are, and what we may expect Yours,
etc., [Signed] J. B. BACKENSTOS.'
Wednesday, 22.----General J. A. Bennett and Mr.
Booth, editor of the Quincy Herald, called at Dr. Richards' and
tarried till noon. The conversation turned upon the saints going west.
General Bennett asked Mr. Booth `why don't you go with them'? Mr. Booth
replied, `To tell you the truth, that is my business here and I am not
alone, for a number of others in Quincy are thinking of the same thing.'
Mr. Booth offered to publish in his paper anything to help the saints
in the sale of their property, and any other communication from us which
would not conflict with public opinion so far as to drive away his
subscribers.
Evening, I met with the Twelve at Elder Taylor's. A letter was read
from Reuben McBride, Kirtland, stating that the apostates were doing
everything they could to injure the saints. S. B. Stoddard, Jacob Bump,
Hiram Kellogg, Leonard Rich, and Jewel Raney are the leaders of the
rioters; they have broken into the House of the Lord, and taken possession
of it, and are trying to take possession of the church farm.
Jesse P. Harmon and John Lytle who were charged with destroying the
Expositor press were tried before Judge Purple.
The court decided in his charge to the jury, that the defendants
acting under the municipal authorities of Nauvoo, were acting without
authority, and if it could be proven that they had taken any part in the
destruction of the press they were to be found guilty.
Rollison was the principal witness for the prosecution and gave a
minute detail of the manner in which the nuisance was abated and stated
that Mr. Harmon took the lead of the police on the occasion. On being
asked if it was Appleton M. Harmon or Jesse P. Harmon, he replied it was
the policeman and on being informed they were both policemen, he became
confused and said he could not tell which it was.
The witness was asked whether it was John Lytle or Andrew Lytle, he
replied, it was the Policeman
Lytle, on being informed that they were both policemen, he answered
it was the Blacksmith Lytle and on being told they were both blacksmiths,
he declared that he could not identify the persons. The jury brought in a
verdict of `not guilty' and the defendants were acquitted accordingly.
Thus were the words of the Prophet Joseph fulfilled, who told the
police (when they reported to him that they had abated the nuisance) that
not one of them should ever be harmed for what they had done, and that if
there were any expenses consequent he would foot the bill.
Thursday, 23.----A detachment of the governor's troops came in from
Carthage to search for in a bogus press. They searched Lucien Woodworth's
house in vain.
By letters from Jonathan H. Hale and Jacob B. Backenstos we learn
that Alpheus Cutler, John Lytle, Jesse B. Harmon and -------------- Holmes
were acquitted, as the prosecution failed to prove they were the men who
destroyed the Expositor press.
All the affidavits of the sufferers in the house-burning in Hancock
county were called for to be presented before the grand jury.
Friday, 24.----Evening, council met at Elder Taylor's. Some of the
mob went to Nathan Bigelow's near Camp Creek and ordered him to leave
before Thursday for they were coming to burn his house, he sent his son to
Nauvoo for counsel, and he was advised to go to Carthage and make the
facts known to Major Warren.
He accordingly went and told Warren who replied, that the troops were
gone elsewhere and he had nobody to send. But told the young man to tell
his father to defend his house, and call on his neighbors to assist him.
It appears that on Thursday the young man did not get back to tell his
father that night. Soon after this, Warren sent five of his men to Father
Bigelow's to defend his house.
They missed their way and did not get there till 11 o'clock at night.
On arriving they tied their horses; and their commander, Lieutenant
Edwards from Quincy, went straight to the door and undertook to go in
without knocking. Father Bigelow expected it was the mob coming and asked
who was there, but the man did not answer but still attempted to open the
door. Father Bigelow again asked who was there, and what he wanted, but
could get no answer. He then told the man if he opened the door he should
shoot him. The man finally opened the door and Father Bigelow discharged a
pistol at him loaded with buckshot; he then snatched up a musket and shot
that. The shot took effect on Edwards' hip and three balls entered his
breast. He fell and called to the others to come and help him. They then
told Father Bigelow they were the governor's troops and had come to
protect him. Father Bigelow said if that was the case he was sorry, and
went to work and made a fire and got the man in and took care of him. This
morning they brought Father Bigelow to Carthage a prisoner, but his case
was not disposed of when the brethren left. Warren justified the act.
Saturday, 25.----4 p.m., A. W. Babbitt arrived from Carthage and
stated that when the brethren went in yesterday as witnesses of the
house-burning the grand jury refused to hear their testimony, or to admit
any of them into the jury room, which effectually shields the
house-burners from justice and blockades the way for the sufferers to
obtain redress.
The steamer Sarah Ann passed up the river, Doctor Foster and Lyman E.
Johnson were on board. When the boat landed Jackson Redden was standing by
and L. E. Johnson stepped up to him to counsel concerning his father and
brother's case. Dr. R. D. Foster got a number of men from the boat and
undertook to haul Redden on board and take him off with them. Redden
knocked the first man down that undertook to lay hands on him; a few of
the brethren who were not far off ran to Redden's assistance and with
sticks and stones soon drove the whole crew on board; the captain started
immediately, without unloading; the clerk left the bills of lading with a
man who handed them to Albert P. Rockwood, but appeared not to know what
he did. After the boat started Doctor Foster shot his pistol at the
brethren but hurt no one. One of the brethren was cut on the back of the
neck with a stone.
This morning Hosea Stout and John Scott stationed themselves at the
mound, seven miles east of Nauvoo, and extended a few men for miles north
and south to ascertain and express any hostile movements which might be
made towards Nauvoo.
Major Warren, Judge Purple, J. B. Backenstos, Judge Ralston and Mr.
Brannan with a detachment of troops came into town and Warren demanded an
explanation in relation to seeing some fifteen or twenty of our express
men on the prairie.
I went to the Mansion and in plain but mild language stated the
reason why our men were there. Warren in a great rage declared he would
issue his manifesto on Monday morning and put the county under martial
law. After this Elder John Taylor made some very just and spirited remarks
in relation to the foul treachery or criminal imbecility of the governor's
protection, telling Mr. Warren that we had placed our express men in a
position to communicate the earliest intelligence should any mob violence
be attempted upon our brethren while at Carthage and further said: `We
lack confidence in the governor's troops under your command while hundreds
of murderers, robbers and house-burners roam at large unwhipped of
justice, We shall take measures to protect ourselves. I, Sir, have been
shot all to pieces under the `protection' of the governor's troops, Our
leading men have been murdered in Carthage and we shall not trust
ourselves unprotected again until the state gives some evidence more than
it has done of its justice and humane intentions to enforce its laws.'
Judge Purple said: `Mr. Taylor do not talk on such an exciting topic.
Elder Taylor ordered wine for the company, Judge Purple and all
except Warren drank.
Elder Hyde commenced to make an apology for Elder Taylor. Elder
Taylor interrupted him, saying, `Do not offer any apology for me'. Judge
Purple said, `We accept the wine for Mr. Taylor's apology.'
Evening, I met with the council at Elder Taylor's. We prayed that the
Lord would overrule the matter and remove from Warren's heart the
disposition to declare martial law or otherwise let his hand be heavy upon
him with judgment that he may not be able to bring trouble upon the
saints.
Brother Hedlock called upon Dr. Richards with a message from General
Bennett, saying that he had left Carthage and gone to Quincy that he would
write Dr. Richards soon, and that he would cross the Rocky Mountains with
us in the spring.
Enos Curtis made the following affidavit:
MORE HOUSE-BURNING `State of Illinois Hancock County ss. On the 25th
day of October, A. D. 1845, personally appeared before me E. A. Bedell one
of the justices of the peace in and for said county, Enos Curtis, who
after being duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith:---that on or
about the eighteenth day of October A. D. 1845, in the Morley Settlement
in said county he saw two houses and three stables burning and also saw
two mobbers armed with guns going away from the same. And the deponent
further saith that on Monday the twenty-first inst. he saw another house
burning, said to belong to the widow Boss containing her potatoes and
other vegetables. And further the deponent saith not. [Signed] ENOS
CURTIS.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 25th day of October, A. D.
1845. [Signed] E. A. BEDELL, J. P.'
Sunday, 26.----This morning Bishop Miller waited upon Judges Purple
and Ralston and showed them the Temple.
Eight a. m., the seventies met in the Temple and proceeded with the
organization of the thirty-first quorum.
P. M., council met at Elder Taylor's. Elder Orson Spencer in behalf
of the council wrote the following:
AN APPEAL TO GOVERNOR FORD `City of Nauvoo, Oct. 26, 1845. To his
Excellency Thomas Ford. Sir: Fresh occasion from an occurrence of last
evening appears to have arisen for this council to address you by the
bearers E. A. Bedell, Esq. and Mr. George Miller. Having learned two or
three days since that a number of houses and outbuildings were burned in
the south part of the county and the utter impotency or negligence of the
state forces to stop the work of burning, and having also learned that the
mob intended next to burn houses in the north part of the county, at Camp
Creek, and application having been made to Major Warren without obtaining
sufficient aid to protect the citizens a number of our men in small
companies not exceeding four in a company were ranging on the prairies in
order to make a prompt report of any fresh depredations that might be made
upon our property or persons.
At this time last evening Judge Purple, Major Warren and a portion of
the bar, after adjourning the court were crossing the prairie to this
place, when Major Warren discovered a portion of our men, say fifteen or
twenty in their detached order. An inquiry into their business was made,
and the answers not being sufficiently definite and satisfactory owing to
weariness of watching and sense of their wrongs, the major took
considerable umbrage and immediately upon his arrival demanded a
satisfactory explanation. It was promptly given by President Young in a
conciliatory spirit.
The major peremptorily avowed that he would issue his manifesto
tomorrow and put the whole county under martial law, after which Elder
Taylor made some spirited but not unjust remarks on his own
responsibility.
If the major should impose martial law upon the county it would be a
matter greatly to be deplored.
It would tend to obstruct the ends of peace and prevent that
arrangement of affairs so necessary to our peaceful departure with our
poor and helpless in the spring. It has been our continued effort and
prayer to God that we might be unmolested until we can depart in the
spring. For this purpose we still desire of you as our honored chief
magistrate and the friend of the oppressed that the state troops may be
speedily withdrawn. From this no danger will arise, even to our worst
enemies, as our past forbearance and long suffering will abundantly prove.
We would respectfully apprise you that the work of burning still goes on
in the southern part of the county, as affidavits forwarded showing a
number of buildings burned in the last two weeks will prove.
Our people are continually harassed with threats of burning, and
assassination up to last evening: and as astonishing as it may seem to you
some of the house-burners are actually in the posse of state troops and
are prowling round in Nauvoo every few days. Judge then of our feelings
and situation and show us that favor that will merit the blessings of
thousands upon your honored head.
Concerning what has been written and other matters of importance to
us, we refer your honor to the bearers, who will give you the necessary
information.
With sentiments of high consideration I have the honor to remain in
behalf of the council your obedient servant, W. RICHARDS, Clerk.'
E. A. Bedell and George Miller started at 8 p. m. to convey the above
communication to Governor Ford. The night was so dark they lost their way
twice and it was with much difficulty they reached Crooked Creek where
they remained till break of day.
I conversed with Judge Ralston in relation to selling our property to
the Catholics. He advised us to sell to them and said he would use his
influence with them in Quincy to come and settle here.
Major Warren said this morning that no man would be permitted to go
into Carthage [to attend trial of the Prophet's murderers] with any kind
of arms. He swore he should search every man. It was thought best that
about one hundred of the brethren should go and about twenty advance into
town without arms, and the balance remain behind until they could
ascertain Warren's movements; and if he declared martial law, all return,
as in that case there can be no court held.
Monday, 27.----Bedell and Miller reached Macedonia early, breakfasted
with Wm. G. Perkins, changed horses and pursued their journey.
Elder A. W. Babbitt returned from Carthage and reported that
Backenstos had obtained a change of venue to Peoria to have his trial in
five weeks. He is in the hands of the coroner who has permission either to
take bail or select his own guard, at the expense of the state. The court
adjourned until next May. The grand jury found bills of indictment against
several of our brethren, none of the witnesses who had been burned out by
the mob were admitted into the jury room, or allowed any opportunity to
testify of their sufferings and so the farce ended with adding insult to
injury. All Governor Ford, General John J. Hardin, Major Warren and Mr.
Brayman's promise of administering justice and punishing the house-burners
simply ends in compelling the sufferers to leave their destitute and
helpless families and bear the loss of time and expense of spending
several days at court to be told: `You d-------- Mormons shall not be
admitted into the jury room to testify against the old citizens who have
burned your houses, barns and grain, and turned your sick and helpless
families out of doors to perish without food or shelter on the eve of
winter.'
Babbitt states that Dr. Abiather Williams has been before one of the
judges of Iowa and sworn that the Twelve made bogus at his house in Iowa.
They have taken out a United States writ and made a demand on the
governor of this state for them, and the deputy marshal of Iowa (Silas
Haight) is at Carthage with writs for all the Twelve. Warren is coming
with the troops tomorrow, to aid the marshal in making the arrests. They
had these writs with them on Saturday evening and this deputy was also
with them, but when Elder Taylor made his speech it bluffed them off and
they were afraid to serve them; since then Warren has sent to some of the
eastern counties for volunteers to join his ranks.
The brethren in council expressed their feelings and all felt
satisfied that the Lord would overrule this matter also for our good. The
brethren of the Twelve all concluded to leave their homes tonight, so that
if the posse come in during the night there will be no danger.
Tuesday, 28.----Ten a. m., President John Smith, Elders Newell K.
Whitney, Joseph Young, Wm. W. Phelps, Orson Spencer, Joseph C. Kingsbury,
and Lucien Woodworth met at Elder Taylor's and prayed.
The Twelve being apprehensive of treachery hid themselves until
towards evening, when I received word from Major Warren that he wished to
have an interview with us.
In the afternoon the Twelve held a consultation with Major Warren: I
copy from Elder Clayton's Journal:
INTERVIEW WITH MAJOR WARREN `Warren stated that when he came in with
his troops on Saturday he had writs against the Twelve for `treason' but
he considered it unjust to serve them, he considered that if the Twelve
were to be harassed with writs this people could not get away in the
spring, that from Elder Taylor's remarks he understood we meant that no
writs of any kind should be served in Nauvoo but intended to resist. This
was explained by President Young who told Warren that we did not intend to
resist. He also drew out of Warren that he was going to Springfield
tomorrow and one part of his errand was to get his friends and relatives
to come here and purchase some of our farms, for he was delighted with
them. It appears that the Lord has softened his heart in answer to our
prayers, for which we felt thankful.'
The following is extracted from George Miller's Journal:
REPORT OF BISHOP MILLER'S INTERVIEW WITH GOVERNOR FORD `We (Miller
and Bedell) traveled during last night, it was very dark, but by the light
of the burning prairie we were enabled to proceed we stopped fourteen
miles from Springfield the latter part of the night and had a short nap
while our breakfast was preparing, at the house of Mr. Bell all that we
had conversed with during the past day disapproved of the course of the
anti-Mormons in Hancock county.
We arrived at Springfield soon after breakfast and delivered the
letter and affidavits to Governor Ford, whereupon he read several letters
from individuals in Hancock county and others from different parts of the
state insisting on the necessity of quartering a force in the county all
winter sufficient to maintain law and order.
Mr. Bedell and I urged with the most earnest solicitude the
disbanding of the forces stationed in our county, as we believed them to
be a greater curse upon us than the real mob, as they have the effect to
embolden rather than deter them [the mob] from committing acts of
violence. Governor Ford seemed to be friendly, he deplored deeply the
situation of the country and said, if he were to exert the executive
influence in our behalf as ought to be done in justice to us, it would
result in his overthrow and ours also. He also said, his private opinion
was that the whole state were a mob and that he could not trust them to
act in any emergency where we as a community were a party: Our interview
lasted about three hours.
His final conclusion was to go to Hancock, and take a conciliatory
course so as to prevent a collision until we should get away next spring:
and when we should be gone bring them to justice and hang every devil of
them [house-burners and murderers].
We conversed with several citizens who approved of the course of
Backenstos in allaying the disturbances in Hancock, and reprobated with
much severity the conduct of the house-burners, and expressed sorrow that
Sheriff Backenstos did not kill five hundred of them.'
I copy from the Nauvoo Neighbor:
ADDENDUM `Hancock Circuit Court: This court commenced its session on
Monday the 20th inst. at Carthage. Present:----the Hon. Norman H. Purple,
Judge; M. Brayman, states attorney pro tem; J. B. Backenstos, sheriff;
Henry W. Miller, coroner; and E. D. Head, clerk.
After the grand jury were called an affidavit was presented to the
court sworn to by a man named Michael Barnes, Jr., one of the known
murderers of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, and also one of the grain and
house-burners, which affidavit set forth that the county commissioners
were prejudiced against him, and selected the grand jury with a view of
having him indicted, whereupon the court set aside the array of grand
jurors. When Sheriff Backenstos addressed the court among other things he
stated that he had been recognized by his Honor to appear and answer
whatever indictment the grand jury might find against him, and hoped that
the court would excuse him or any and all of his deputies in the selection
of grand jurors. The sheriff and his deputies were then excused from
performing that duty, whereupon the court appointed Thomas H. Owen and
William D. Abernathy, elisors: objections being made to Wm. D. Abernathy
the court set him aside and appointed Captain Morgan of Adams county in
his place.
The grand jury, as selected by the elisors, were called and sworn on
Thursday, and retired to investigate the crimes which have been committed
in Hancock county unanswered and true presentments made. Little if
anything was done on Thursday.
On Friday a rush was made by the mob party. Witnesses were brought in
and examined before the grand jury and on Saturday about 11 o'clock the
grand jury came into court and presented a bill against Sheriff Backenstos
for the murder of Worrell, also several bills were found against the
Latter-day Saints. In the meantime on Friday afternoon about forty
witnesses appeared in Carthage to enter their complaints against the
house-burners for arson, larceny and other crimes, knocking at the door of
the grand jury room to be heard, and applying individually to some of the
grand jurors with their complaints; but nothing could be done. There being
a determination on the part of the grand jury that no evidence should be
heard nor bills found against any of the anti-Mormons, whether for murder,
burning houses or other outrages perpetrated against the saints; when the
grand jury presented the bills the sheriff was placed in the hands of the
coroner. The prosecuting attorney entered a nolle prosequi as to the bills
found against the saints.
The court adjourned until Monday the 27th instant when Sheriff
Backenstos was to be tried: the sheriff appeared ready with his counsel
and desired an immediate trial, but by some judicial legerdemain the cause
was sent to Peoria county to be tried at a special term of a circuit
court, which is to come off in about five weeks. On motion of council, it
was ordered that Sheriff Backenstos be admitted to bail in the sum of
$3000, for his appearance at Peoria circuit court, which bail price has
been executed and the sheriff is going about his business. The sheriff is
in good health and spirits, and bears persecution with all commendable
forbearance. His Honor Judge Purple visited Nauvoo on Saturday afternoon
in company with M. Brayman, states attorney, Major Warren, and several
gentlemen of the bar, and heard the Latter-day Saints tell their own
story.'
Wednesday, 29.----I remained incognito at Brother A. P. Rockwood's,
Brothers George A. Smith and Amasa M. Lyman came to see me; also Brothers
Henry G. Sherwood and John S. Fullmer who had just returned from their
mission westward; Bishop Whitney and Brother Wm. Clayton also came to see
me. Elder Sherwood made a report of their late mission, which was very
satisfactory and gave us some very interesting information concerning our
best route to the west.
I extract the following from John S. Fullmer's account of his mission
to Vermilion:
FULLMER'S MISSION TO JAMES EMMETT'S ENCAMPMENT `August 13, 1845: In
company with Elder Henry G. Sherwood and James Emmett, I started from
Nauvoo on a mission to James Emmett's company, encamped on the Vermillion,
a tributary of the upper Missouri river.
We had one horse each, which carried us and all our provisions and
bedding for the journey. Our course lay about west-north-west as far as
Raccoon Barracks on the Des Moines river, seventy-five miles from Nauvoo.
Finding that we were suspected of being Indian traders we took a
northwest course for four days and then turned towards Council Bluffs.
While here Emmett's conduct became almost insupportable, and he appeared
unwilling to pilot us to his camp, but finding Elder Sherwood and myself
determined to push on at all hazards, he concluded to accompany us. Much
of the country over which we traveled was very dry and water scarce so
that we suffered considerably.
Finding there was some disturbance between the Pottawattomie and
Sioux Indians we took our course up the river several miles from it
keeping a sharp lookout for war parties and Indian campfires.
September 13.---We arrived at Emmett's camp (625 miles from Raccoon
Barracks) and met our brethren. On our way we encountered many deep
streams, with miry bottoms, and steep banks, also some severe storms which
caused some of the streams to overflow their banks.
Emmett's camp contained about one hundred souls and were in a better
condition than we expected to find them, they were tolerably well provided
with provisions but somewhat destitute of clothing.
They feasted us on samp and milk and urged us to eat heartily of
dried buffalo meat saying it would hurt no one, but we found to the
contrary to our inconvenience and sorrow, its tendency is to swell to its
natural dimensions as soon as eaten and this caused us to feel something
like a beer barrel in a state of fermentation which no hoops can control.
Notwithstanding our caution and prudence, Elder Sherwood and myself
were taken with violent ague and fever and for a week or more were unable
to attend to business during which time Emmett sought to get the advantage
of us, by intimating to the company that something was wrong with us, that
the Lord was displeased with us, etc. John S. Butler and a few others had
spirit enough to understand the spirit of these charges. Upon Elder
Sherwood's recovery he rebaptized John S. Butler and reordained him. I was
then carried to the river and rebaptized for my health by Elder J. S.
Butler and walked back and was so far recovered in a few days as to be
able to attend council.
We explained our mission to the people, and gave what instruction we
could, as to their temporal welfare. We learned that many of them had been
led away by Emmett's misrepresentations and such were glad to receive our
counsel. Emmett opposed us and finally claimed equal authority with us.
This drew forth our papers which gave us the presidency, while Emmett was
only our conductor to the camp. The saints went forth and were all
rebaptized by Elder John S. Butler.
To obviate any trouble with Emmett after we should be gone, we
appointed him the president of the camp, with instructions. They were to
remain where they were, build cabins for the winter, procure what buffalo
meat they could, by sending out organized parties; to conciliate the
friendship of the Indians, and prepare themselves for any instructions
they might receive from Nauvoo in the spring, anticipating a removal to
some place then unknown. After we had finished our business we appointed
John S. Butler to attend us on our return, as we were yet too feeble to
risk such a trip alone, and also to be the bearer of such instructions to
the camp as might be given at headquarters. Emmett desired this
appointment; but his recent behavior as a guide disqualified him.
A few days before we left a circumstance happened which came near
proving fatal to the whole camp. Owing to our feeble health, we decided
that it was impracticable to return on horseback: Accordingly we solicited
Emmett to buy our horses for the use of the camp; but he gave us no
satisfaction. We next applied to Brewyer, a French trader who gave us
forty-five dollars for our horses: Emmett refused to deliver up the horses
from his corral, although they had been paid for, stating that he wanted
them for buffalo horses. This so enraged Brewyer that he immediately
declared hostilities against the whole camp. There had been above a
thousand Indians camped close by during our stay, but they had just
started to the north. Brewyer who had married two of Eagle's (the chief's)
daughters sent for him to return with all his warriors, which summons they
promptly obeyed. He now stimulated them by giving them whiskey and sold
them guns and ammunition on credit, in case they would wipe out the entire
camp. Eagle promised to do so.
Fortunately there lived there a half-breed named Ongee, an educated
and influential man to whom Eagle communicated his intentions. Ongee
opposed them with all the art he was master of, One device was this: Ongee
said they would select the least baby they could find and kill it and he
would give each of them a petticoat and make squaws of all them: to Eagle
he said he should walk over his dead body first: but if they would desist
Brewyer should have the horses he had bought, which we also determined he
should have if that should settle up the affair.
Just before the difficulty was settled, an Indian brave appeared
followed by a number of others on horseback, before Butler's tent, where
Emmett was sitting and leveled his rifle at him; but was instantly
prevented from firing by Ongee who was consulting with him on the subject
at the time.
Ongee's wife also used what influence, tears and entreaties she had
with the several chiefs, and with Eagle also, who was the head chief.
In ordinary circumstances these efforts would have proven unavailing
but the Lord had compassion on his people and turned the wrath of the
Indians aside.
Ongee had contracted a friendship towards our people which he so
manfully displayed in the deliverance of the camp. And wishing to show his
respect to the two strangers who visited the camp with authority, he made
a feast, the best his table could furnish; and there was no mean variety
of vegetables, fowls and meat served up in tolerably good style, and in
great profusion. Among the latter variety was to them the choicest of all
dishes, especially when they wish to do honor to their guests: that was a
fine fat dog of small size. Being a dish of honor it became indispensable
that we should partake of it, which of course we did, but I will not say,
`with a will', but with apparent good grace. It was also a rule with them
that each guest must clear his plate or dish, however much it might
contain, or of whatever kind or variety, or pay a horse in default; but
from some cause or other, perhaps through respect for our feeble health,
this rule was waived, in our behalf, to our no small gratification, for we
had been served enough to do us half a week.
As we had concluded to return by the river we made a canoe of a large
cottonwood tree and fell in company with a couple of traders who were
going down the river with some furs.
We left camp on the third of October, taking provisions as we
supposed to last us to Council Bluffs, but being unacquainted with the
channel, and the river being low, we found ourselves out of provisions
before we had got half the distance. About this time as we were camping
(for we had to lay to by nights) we saw a large flock of turkeys going to
roost near by. One of the trappers, Elders Butler and Sherwood started out
for a hunt by moonlight, one shot nine, one eleven, and the other thirteen
times without so much as ruffling a feather. The Frenchman cursed his luck
and swore his gun had a spell on it.
In the morning Butler went out and at the first shot brought down his
turkey, this served us one day, and now we had eaten our last bite and no
prospects of anything but salt and Missouri river water. We continued our
route watching for game, hours passed and we saw none. After camping for
the night, the Frenchman who had cursed his luck, shot a fine buck deer,
which lasted us to Council Bluffs, eight days.
Twenty miles above St. Joseph, Missouri, John S. Butler left us and
struck across the country for Nauvoo, not wishing to go through Missouri.
At St. Joseph we took a steamer for St. Louis. The rest of our
journey to Nauvoo was pleasant as we performed it by steamboat. It is
reported that the apostates are trying to get up an influence with the
president of the United States to prevent the saints emigrating westward,
and that they have written to the president informing him of the
resolutions of the General Council [Council of Fifty] to move westward,
and representing that Council guilty of treason, etc.'"
CHAPTER XXXV
IMPORTANT LETTERS, FRIENDLY AND OTHERWISE---- SUMMARY OF RECENT
PROCEDURE IN AND ABOUT NAUVOO WITH COMMENT OF AN EDITORIAL FROM THE
TIMES AND SEASONS
"Wednesday, October 29, 1845.----Evening, the Twelve met at Elder
Taylor's, The following letter was read: WILD SCHEMES PROPOSED BY
`BACKWOODSMAN' OF PALMYRA, MISSOURI, FOR THE CONJOINT OCCUPANCY OF
`CALIFORNIA' BY THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS AND MIGRATING CITIZENS FROM THE
UNITED STATES, BUT TO LIVE IN SEPARATE COMMUNITIES---FOUNDING OF
INDEPENDENT GOVERNMENT---`THE UNITED STATES OF THE WEST' `Palmyra, Mo.,
Oct. 22, 1845. Sir: Owing to particular circumstances, I make free to
address you, though a stranger, and I do it with plainness and candor
because I think candor is always best, and may prevent difficulty
hereafter. I see from the papers that you Mormons as a body intend to
remove next spring to California, I myself am one of a very large number
who have for some time been making arrangements for a settlement there
with a view to the ultimate and not very remote establishment of an
independent government not with a view to annexation to this government at
all, but for that and Oregon to form the `United States of the West'.
General Leslie Combs of Kentucky and several sons of Mr. Clay, are of
the number, and the design will be carried out, and it is folly in you to
think of settling there, unless it be on terms of compromise, that will
insure the peaceable enjoyment of your peculiar organization. Experience
ought to have taught you by this time, that it is impossible for you to
exist as a community collected together in a city in the midst of another
community, governed by other laws, than those you esteem paramount to all
laws. You cannot be tolerated long, in that manner of living, anywhere; it
is contrary to human nature and to the nature of things. The very
principles you inculcate, that as the Lord's chosen people you have a
right to everything you need, are incompatible with civil government, and
the rights of others, and will not be tolerated, I again say, in any place
long. If therefore you locate in California when it has already commenced
settling, you interfere with the settlers already there, and you will
create a prejudice against you, and so soon as enough others join them,
which will soon be the case, you will again be expelled, this is
inevitable.
I freely acknowledge, that although I have never taken any part
against you, yet, I have felt a strong prejudice against your community
because I believe that the natural tendency of your institutions is to
make a part of your community bad citizens. No people have a right to
interfere with your religious views, but if your religious views tend to
disturb or resist the laws, or trespass on the rights or property of
others, then the community have the right to interfere, and such is the
case, too well established to be doubted by any person of intelligence,
after making all proper allowance for false reports against you, of which
I doubt not there are many. I think I understand you about as well as you
do yourselves. There are three classes among you, the leaders, the
fanatics and the dishonest part. The whole design of the leaders is to
obtain power and wealth, the fanatics are conscientious and honest in
their belief that they are doing God's service, but a large proportion
have joined you, just to get the license and impunity which your numbers
and strength give them, to pilfer and steal. This is the real state of the
case, and it is useless to deny it. I do not charge all your denomination
with the faults of a part, but I charge that the nature of your
organization inclines the body to protect those committing depredations. I
know there are good and bad in all communities, but the fear of the law
with us, checks the vicious, with you they are emboldened, because they
think your numbers will shield them from punishment, hence they indulge to
a greater degree in bad practices, not because they are worse than others
but because of the nature of your social system. Whenever men have the
strength, they tyrannize and even well disposed persons may be induced to
connive at such practices by such arguments as these: The earth is the
Lord's and the fullness thereof, and he giveth it to his chosen people, we
are his chosen people, therefore we have a right to everything we need'.
The country around and on the Bay of San Francisco and in the valley
of the Sacramento has already commenced settling, and in that part our
party will settle and if you settle there you cannot stay there for the
two communities cannot and will not live together, but if you are wise and
will consent to the arrangement we propose, you will neither infringe
upon, nor be infringed upon.
Mr. Hastings describes California as being naturally divided into two
sections which he denominates the western and eastern sections. (I suppose
you have read his book). In the eastern section there are no settlements,
that section is watered by the great river, the Colorado of the west,
which puts into the Gulf of California, or rather into the Bay of Colorado
which is connected with the gulf; Hastings says that the harbor at the
estuary of the river is very capacious and good, this affords a very
eligible situation for an extensive settlement, and large city of
commercial business; here, as there are no settlements, you can safely
locate without infringing upon anybody and by a prudent arrangement being
made beforehand the settlement may be permanent. I hope you may see the
necessity of such arrangements, and avoid all occasion for such continual
agitation and commotion as have been heretofore in connection with your
community. I was often deeply pained on seeing your women and children,
moving from Missouri through the snow and inclement weather, but
notwithstanding these were my feelings, my acquaintances with the world
and with human nature is such, that I know you cannot live in your
organized embodied state in the midst of another community. We are willing
to come to an understanding with you and reduce it to something like the
form of a treaty that you shall settle at the mouth of the Colorado of the
west and have assigned you a certain district of country, sufficiently
large on that riv